'Tired' Ballesteros sorry for absence

Seve Ballesteros did not feel well enough to fly to Paris for the conclusion of the Vivendi Trophy today as had been hoped – but he did record a television message.

“I am very sorry I cannot be with you this year,” said the Spanish star, who 11 months ago collapsed with a brain tumour.

“I just finished my radiotherapy and that really makes me very tired. That was expected – hopefully I should be okay in about one month.

“I would like to start thanking all of the players for all their support I get during those difficult moments and I think it’s very nice and very emotional to know you have people behind you.

“It’s great to see the sixth edition of the Seve Trophy (the name was changed this year to ”the Vivendi Trophy with Seve Ballesteros“ when a sponsor was found).

“I think it’s one tournament I created due to how much I like match play and thinking that it will help the players for the future Ryder Cups.”

After also thanking the sponsors, the French public, the European Tour and the media he concluded: “Thank you very much from the bottom of my heart.

“I hope the Seve Trophy is a great experience for all of the players and I hope the French people enjoy very much watching those great champions.

“One more time, thank you very much everybody and I’m looking forward to seeing you on the seventh edition of the Seve Trophy in two years’ time. Bye bye.”

Captains Paul McGinley and Thomas Bjorn had received a letter from Ballesteros before the match and they recorded their own message to him today.

The former world number one will also be presented with a painting with the inscription: “From the players to Seve in appreciation of your unique talent and great inspiration.”