Send your messages of support to Seve

As the world of sport waits to discover the extent of the brain tumour afflicting Seve Ballesteros, messages of goodwill have poured in urging him to fight his illness with the same qualities that he showed during his golf career.

The full prognosis of Ballesteros's illness is not yet known as he undergoes a biopsy today in a Madrid hospital. But as we await more news, the readers of Times Online have shared their messages and stories about the Spaniard.

"Seve, you are an inspiration to me and thousands of others - I took up golf after seeing you strike a majestic fairway wood to the green on the first hole of the World Matchplay back in 1991."

Howard Bold added: "Whenever I am playing golf and end up in a tricky situation I always think 'What would Seve do here?'. And then I go straight for the pin. Now it's time for you to pull off another wondershot, Seve, we all know you can do it."

"Your fighting spirit is legendary, and we have never seen you give up and you will win this battle too," said John Waters, while David Houghton added: " There was never a golfer like you for getting into and out of trouble on the golf course. May you do the same with your illness."

"As a non-golfer who was turned onto the sport by your performances, and [because of] your admirable spirit and determination, I know you will bring that same determination to bear in this new struggle," Keith Harrison said.

Many of our readers have shared their memories of brief encounters with Ballesteros, and Cortez Ragland even got a tip.

"It was in the late 70s at Augusta, I was in the pro shop waiting it out and looking at some wedges when someone came up from behind and gently took the club from my hands and said 'Good wedge play is in hands'. I looked up and it was you. I will never forget the time you took to speak a word of encouragement to me, a total stranger."

Nigel Watkins added: "I had the pleasure of carrying your bag at the Belfry in a pro-am. The following year I played 18 with you in the pro-am. From those days I have been inspired by you - you are truly a world superstar. Come on Seve, get better soon."

Click here to add your messages of support to Seve