Ballesteros receives honorary membership at R&A

ST. ANDREWS, Scotland -- Three-time British Open champion Seve Ballesteros has accepted honorary membership of the Royal & Ancient Golf Club at St. Andrews almost a year after undergoing multiple operations to remove a malignant brain tumor.

The Spaniard, 52, won the 1984 Open title at the home of golf to go with two triumphs at Royal Lytham & St. Annes in 1979 and 1988. He also has two Masters titles.

He said Tuesday the outstanding moment of his career was at St. Andrews, where his fist-pump to celebrate his winning birdie putt at the final hole is one of golf's most memorable moments.

He hopes to return next year for the 150th anniversary of the Open.

Ballesteros underwent four operations between October and December last year.