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Arguably the most naturally gifted player of his generation, Severiano Ballesteros ushered in a new era for European golf with his swashbuckling brilliance.

The Spaniard won five Majors, six Harry Vardon trophies and played in eight Ryder Cups at the peak of his powers, and did so with a fearless bravado that has made him one of the most respected figures to play the game.

The Basics

Name: Severiano Ballesteros

Born: April 9 1957, in Pedrena, Spain

Playing Career

Turned professional: 1975

European Tour wins: 48

European Tour Order of Merit titles (Harry Vardon Trophy): 6

1976, 1977, 1978, 1986, 1988, 1991

US Tour wins: 4

Other wins: 16

Majors: 5

The Open - 1979, 1984, 1988

Masters - 1980, 1983

Ryder Cup appearances (as player): 8

1979, 1983 (won), 1985 (won), 1987, 1989, 1991, 1993, 1995 (won)

Matches record: Played 37*, Won 20, Halved 12, Lost 5

Points won: 22½ (fourth highest for Europe)

*Ballesteros and compatriot Jose Maria Olazabal are the most successful pairing in Ryder Cup history, with 12 points gained from 15 matches.

Ryder Cup captain: 1997, The Belfry (Europe won)

Accolades / Honours

Golf Writers Trophy - 1979, 1984, 1991

Johnny Walker Golfer Of The Year - 1986, 1988, 1991

BBC Sport 'International Personality of the Year' - 1984

Golf Digest 'World Player of the Year' - 1988

Inducted into World Golf Hall of Fame - 1997

European Player of the Century - 2000

On Seve:

Lee Trevino: "Every generation or so there emerges a golfer who is a little bit better than anybody else. I believe Ballesteros is one of them. On a golf course he's got everything. I mean everything: touch, power, know-how, courage and charisma."

Will Tidey / Eurosport