Players pray for Seve Ballesteros

Seve Ballesteros has suffered a severe deterioration in his health, according to a statement released by the golfing great's family today.

Ballesteros, a five-time Major winner, has had four operations to remove a brain tumour following his collapse at a Madrid airport in October 2008.

The 54-year-old is being cared for at home in northern Spain and a statement, on his website, read: "The family would like to disclose that there has been severe deteriotion in the neurological health of Seve Ballesteros.

"The family will give further information, as and when there is a development in the state of his health. They would like to take the opportunity to thank everyone who has supported Seve and the family.

"The family will provide punctual information, through the website www.seveballesteros.com, about the situation of the Spanish champion."

Following the statement, the world's top golfers responded in sympathy. Francesco Molinari, a Ryder Cup winner in 2010, posted on his Twitter page: "Every golfer in the world is with you Seve, hang in there."

World No10 Bubba Watson said: "Praying for Seve & his family!!!"

Ballesteros, a successful Ryder Cup captain in 1997, had planned a farewell appearance for British fans at last year's Open at St Andrews in a four-hole Champions Challenge before his health prevented him from travelling.

And at last month's Masters at Augusta, world No4 Phil Mickelson decided on a Spanish menu for the Champions Dinner in honour of the absent Cantabrian.

Ballesteros is held in particularly high affection in this country after winning the Open three times with his swashbuckling style of play.