07 May,2011 07:42 AM IST | | AFP
Rafael Nadal paid tribute to ailing golf superstar Seve Ballesteros yesterday describing his cancer-stricken compatriot as the 'benchmark' for all Spanish athletes.
"Seve is a great, a benchmark for all the Spanish athletes, who have been fortunate to meet him, play golf with him. I wish him well," said the World No 1.
"Life is cruel sometimes, he's had a struggle in recent years but he's still been able to do things. His foundation is an example for society, and all athletes."
Yesterday Ballesteros, who underwent surgery for a brain tumour three years ago, suffered a "severe deterioration" of his condition, his family said. The 54-year-old was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumour after losing consciousness at Madrid airport on Oct 6, 2008.
