Severiano Ballesteros has been moved out of the intensive care unit at the Madrid hospital where he is being treated. Ballesteros was diagnosed with a brain tumour at La Paz hospital, after losing consciousness at Madrid Airport early last month.

He underwent a lengthy operation on October 24th to reduce pressure on his brain, caused by an oedema, and to remove remaining tumour tissues following two previous operations.

Ballesteros was moved to the hospital's intensive care unit following the treatment, but the five-time major winner has now recovered enough to leave the unit.

A hospital statement read: "Severiano Ballesteros has left the intensive care unit and has now changed ward. Although this is good news, I 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."