Ballesteros withdraws after mothers death

Severiano Ballesteros withdrew from the Madrid Open on Thursday following the death of his mother Carmen, 83, at her home in Pedrena.

Ballesteros was due to tee off in Thursday's first round with Ireland's Padraig Harrington, who is locked in a tight battle with South African Retief Goosen for this season's European order of merit title.

Australia's Peter Fowler has replaced the Spaniard in the draw.

Ballesteros's father Baldomero died some years ago but both his parents were his inspiration in the early years in becoming a five-time major champion.

Both his mother and his wife watched him win the 1984 British Open Championship at St Andrews.

Ballesteros, nephew of tournament player Ramon Sota, is one of four golfing brothers who played the sport at the highest level. Baldomero, Manuel and Vicente are the other three.

Ballesteros's nephew Raul, son of his brother Baldomero, is also a golf professional.

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