Ballesteros released from intensive care

Nov 18, 2008 - 4:33 PM MADRID, Spain (Ticker) -- Golf great Seve Ballesteros was released from intensive care Tuesday following a third operation to remove a malignant brain tumor.

Madrid's La Paz hospital released a statement claiming that the 51-year-old Ballesteros is improving.

"Severiano Ballesteros has left the intensive care unit and has now changed ward," the statement said. "Although this is good news, (the hospital) would like to ask for everyone's patience - because the process is a lengthy one, and there is still a long way to go.

"He is continuing his recovery and is receiving visits."

Ballesteros underwent a lengthy procedure on October 24 to alleviate pressure on his brain caused by an edema and to remove remaining tumor tissues following two previous operations.

A five-time major winner, Ballesteros was diagnosed with the tumor after losing consciousness at Madrid Airport early last month.