Olazabal inspired by letter

Olazabal: Regularly contacts Seve

I've seen Seve a few times in the last few weeks. He's actually doing very well considering what he has gone through.

Jose Maria Olazabal
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Jose Maria Olazabal has received a message from a recovering Seve Ballesteros, urging him to lead Europe to victory in the Royal Trophy.

Ballesteros is recovering at home in Spain after four operations to remove a brain tumour.

The former European Ryder Cup captain and five-time major winner conveyed his determination to make a full recovery in a letter read by his nephew, Ivan Ballesteros, at the Royal Trophy opening ceremony.

"Even though I'm not there today, somehow my heart and my thoughts are there with you," the letter read.

Recovery

"I'm at home recovering and working hard every day. I will keep fighting and doing all in my heart and in my head to win my most difficult match.

"I hope I see you again next year, hopefully defending the title once again as captain of the European side."

In Ballesteros' absence, Olazabal has stepped into the role of European captain for the matchplay contest against Asia.

Stronger

The 42-year-old, who was visibly moved as the letter was read out, revealed he has been in regular contact with his compatriot.

"His only instructions were to win," Olazabal said.

"I've seen Seve a few times in the last few weeks. He's actually doing very well considering what he has gone through.

"His spirits are very high, he's really working hard at the rehab, he's trying to recover completely and he's getting stronger so he can get chemotherapy treatment and so on.

"He's in great spirits, he's thinking of doing things, and, as Ivan said, he's

aiming to be healthy again and to battle this thing.

"So far the news has been very, very good.

Warning

"Seve picked the team before I was brought in as captain, and he told me to enjoy captaining them, but to watch out for this Asian team because it contains some very experienced players.

"And he also told me to make sure Europe won the Royal Trophy for the third time."

"I will do my best to deliver a win for my great friend and Europe."