Oct 12, 2008 - 2:12 PM
0 shoutsMADRID, Spain (Ticker) -- Seve Ballesteros on Sunday revealed to the Spanish media that he has been diagnosed with a brain tumor.
The legendary Spanish golfer collapsed at Madrid airport on Monday and was taken to a hospital in the city, where he remained in intensive care while doctors conducted brain scans.
Ballesteros, 51, left La Paz hospital's intensive care unit on Saturday. He made the announcement about his condition on Sunday after informing his family.
Ballesteros announced he would undergo a biopsy on Tuesday.
"The doctors will now decide how to proceed," the statement read. "Throughout my entire career, I have been one of the best at overcoming obstacles on the golf course. And now I want to be the best, facing the most difficult game of my life, using all my strength and also counting on those who have been sending me get-well messages."
The five-time major winner had posted a statement on his web site earlier in the week to tell fans he was awaiting test results and to thank well-wishers for their support.
However, La Paz hospital had released a statement Friday confirming the Spaniard had suffered "a partial epileptic fit."
Ballesteros had been waiting to meet with his family before making the details of his illness public on Sunday.
"Now I've been able to tell my three children personally and their mother, now I can tell you the illness that I am suffering from," he said in the statement. "After the exhaustive tests that I have undertaken in the Hospital La Paz, they have detected a brain tumor.
"I have always sympathized with those people who face illnesses. Therefore, I want to remind them that with bravery, faith, serenity, confidence and a lot of mental strength, we have to face any situation no matter how difficult it is."
Ballesteros asked for his family's privacy to be respected while promising to provide updates on his condition.
"Now my wish is to ask for respect for my family and especially for my children. We will keep you informed," he continued. "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."
