Ballesteros reveals he has brain tumor

MADRID, Spain -- After an illustrious career marked by nearly as many achievements as unimaginable golf shots -- including an unforgettable one from a parking lot during his first British Open win, Seve Ballesteros was preparing for the "hardest challenge" of his life Sunday after learning he has a brain tumor.

A five-time major winner, the 51-year-old Ballesteros was set to undergo a biopsy Tuesday before doctors would determine how to proceed. He was admitted to a hospital Monday after briefly losing consciousness.

"Once I had been able to inform my three children personally and their mother, I can now communicate to you the illness I am suffering from. After an in-depth check up which has been carried out on me in the La Paz Hospital they have detected a brain tumor," Ballesteros said in a statement released by Madrid's La Paz hospital.

Ballesteros did not give any more details on the test results. It was unknown whether the tumor was benign or malignant.

"I have always shown my solidarity with those people who face illness, including those whose [illnesses] are much worse than mine," said Ballesteros, who was also admitted to a hospital last year when doctors discovered an irregular heartbeat.

"Now my wish is to ask for respect towards my family and especially my children. We will keep you informed."