Seve Ballesteros has revealed that he has been diagnosed with a brain tumour.
The 51 year old collapsed at Madrid airport on Monday and was taken to hospital in the city, where he remained in intensive care while doctors conducted brain scans.
Ballesteros left La Paz Hospital's intensive care unit on Saturday, before making the announcement about his condition on Sunday after informing his family.
The statement said: “Now I have been able to inform my three children and their mother, now I can tell you about the illness that I am suffering. After a thorough medical check-up at La Paz Hospital, a brain tumour has been detected.
“Throughout my whole career I have been one of the best at facing obstacles on the golf course. Now I want to be the best, facing the most difficult match of my life, with all my strength, and counting on all of you who are sending encouraging messages.
“Next Tuesday I will have a biopsy performed, and then the doctors will decide how to proceed.
“I have always felt very close to people who suffer serious illness, even more severe than mine. I want to remind them that with courage, faith, serenity, confidence and a lot of mental strength we have to face every situation no matter how difficult it is.
"I want to thank from the bottom of my heart all those people who have shown affection and interest in my state of health, with all kinds of support. Many thanks."
Speaking on behalf of his fellow Board Members, The European Tour’s Executive Management and all staff, Neil Coles, Chairman of The PGA European Tour Board of Directors, said: “Everyone connected with The European Tour will be shocked to hear this news. We are confident that Seve will conquer this challenge with the same determination he has brought to all previous challenges.”
