Son of Seve Ballesteros turns professional

he 24 year hopes to follow in his father's footsteps.

Javier Ballesteros, the eldest son of legendary golfer Seve, has turned professional. The 24-year-old, who competed in his late father's place at the Dubai Desert Classic last February , has announced he will attempt to qualify for the Alps Tour in Europe. 'This is something I have always wanted', Ballesteros said. 'Whether I will succeed or not, time will tell, however I do not want to regret not having tried my best and must give it a go. I know it will not be easy and I am aware of the hard work required'.

Ballesteros also spoke about the pressure in following in such esteemed footsteps. 'My father had a long and difficult start in golf, mine is a bit easier. Although I have a disadvantage in the sense everyone will always compare us and will expect from me, not what my dad achieved, but half of it - which is already a lot'.

Seve Ballesteros died of brain cancer in 2011 aged 54 and was one the game's most charismatic and successful players, bursting onto the scene as a teenager in the 1970s. The Spaniard won the Open Championship in 1979 aged 22 and would win a further four major titles. Ballesteros also won the World Matchplay Championships fives times, and was part of four Ryder Cup winning teams as a player, and once as captain in 1997

'Today my dad comes specially to my mind', Javier said. 'He taught me everything or almost everything I know about golf and I would have loved him to see me turning pro. I am sure he would be very proud and happy'.