Seve Ballesteros’ decision not to play the Masters at Augusta next month has left golf fans wondering when, or even if they will see the former world number one perform again.

Ballesteros told officials at Augusta National, the club where he triumphed in 1980 and 1983, that he was "not as well prepared as I need to be to compete in such a magnificent tournament.

"I have thought it through carefully and believe that to play in Augusta with the elite of world golf requires a different level of form to that which I can offer."

The 48-year-old Spaniard has played only one event in almost two-and-a-half years - the Madrid Open last October - and has not entered for a single European tour event at present.

He had rounds of 77 and 73 at Club de Campo to finish last but one, yet said afterwards that he was hopeful of playing regularly this season.

Ballesteros had battled with an arthritic back and a number of other ailments since his last victory at the 1995 Spanish Open. He has not made a cut in a major since the 1996 Masters and his last round in a major was an 85 at Augusta three years ago.