Severiano Ballesteros

Severiano Ballesteros was a Spanish professional golfer who dominated the sport in the 1980s and 1990s. Born on April 9, 1957, in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain, Ballesteros was a natural left-hander who developed a unique swing style that earned him the nickname "Seve." He began playing golf at a young age and quickly rose through the amateur ranks, winning several national championships and earning a scholarship to the University of Barcelona. Ballesteros turned professional in 1974 and made his debut on the European Tour in 1976. He won his first tournament in 1976 and went on to win 91 professional tournaments, including five major championships: the Open Championship three times, the Masters Tournament twice, and the PGA Championship once. He was known for his aggressive playing style, which often led to dramatic comebacks and thrilling finishes. Ballesteros was also an accomplished course designer and architect, designing several courses around the world, including the famous Valderrama Golf Club in Spain. He was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 1999 and was named the European Tour Golfer of the Year a record seven times.