Chemotherapy starts for Ballesteros

Seve Ballesteros has begun a course of chemotherapy as he continues his recovery from a brain tumour.

Ballesteros returned to his home in northern Spain on Thursday from Madrid, where he was released from hospital on December 9.

"Today is Friday, and I have started my first chemotherapy session," Ballesteros said in a statement on his website. "At this point, my thought is to rest and follow the neurosurgeon doctors Heredero, Isla and Perez Alvarez's indications - as well as the oncologist doctor Cristobel Belda's advice."

Ballesteros, a five-time major winner, was admitted to hospital in October after collapsing.

The 51-year-old was diagnosed with a brain tumour and underwent a lengthy operation on October 24 to reduce pressure on his brain and remove remaining tumour tissues following two previous operations.

On November 18 he had recovered sufficiently to leave intensive care but was readmitted a fortnight later for further surgery.

In the statement, he said he would provide a further update on his condition next month.