Seve Ballesteros has vowed to play at next year’s Open despite struggling with his vision following surgery and chemotherapy on a brain tumour. The Spaniard retired from competitive golf in 2007 but wants to make a final major appearance to bid farewell to his fans.
The 52-year-old concedes his recovery from illness has left him with lingering difficulties but intends to fight against them to take his place at St Andrews in 2010.
He said: “With putting I have to make a mark on the ball then use it to line up the putter. I have also lost the perception of distance for long putts.
“But if things go normally, which I hope they will, I will be there (at the Open) I promise. To say goodbye and thank you for what you have done throughout the years. Thank you and I love you all.”
He added: “Probably some people will feel sorry for me and maybe cry, but I feel happy and am a very lucky person because throughout life I have had so many great moments. I feel I have lived two or three lives.”
