Ballesteros hopeful of playing in 2010 British Open at St. Andrews

MADRID (AP) — Seve Ballesteros is hopeful that his health will allow him to play a round at next year’s British Open at St. Andrews.

Ballesteros, who is recovering from brain cancer that has left him partially blind in his left eye, said Wednesday that he is considering an appearance at the event he won three times.

“It’s still a long way before we can make any decisions,” he said. “I would like to show up at St. Andrews this coming year because St. Andrews is a very special place.”

Ballesteros was on hand in the Spanish capital as organizers unveiled the completed field for the Oct. 29-Nov. 1 Volvo Match Play Championship, to be held in Spain for the first time. Ballesteros’ foundation will be the event’s official charity.

The 52-year-old Ballesteros said his treatment was proceeding well and that “things are going under par “ regarding his overall health after numerous operations last year to remove a malignant tumor.

Part of his rehabilitation includes running counter-clockwise to help strengthen the vision in his left eye.

“[I’m handling the chemotherapy] as I did many times in tournaments when I had to play between two trees. A little more difficult, but similar. The worst moments have passed,” said Ballesteros.

He will be joined by Ryder Cup captains Colin Montgomerie and Corey Pavin at the event at Finca Cortesin golf course.