MADRID, Spain -- Spanish golf great Seve Ballesteros was released from the hospital Tuesday, more than two months after undergoing brain surgery to remove a malignant tumor.

The 51-year-old Spaniard left the hospital Tuesday morning but will continue to be treated as an outpatient, Madrid's La Paz hospital said in a statement.

Ballesteros, one of Spain's best known sports personalities, was admitted Oct. 6 after fainting at Madrid's international airport. He had several operations, including a 6 1/2-hour procedure Oct. 24 to remove the brain tumor and reduce swelling around the brain.

A five-time major champion, Ballesteros is known for spectacular shots and fearless play. He retired in 2007, but has remained active in the sport, designing golf courses among other activities.

In all, Ballesteros has undergone four operations, the last of which took place last week.

"The patient Severiano Ballesteros has been discharged this morning by the Department of Neurosurgery and has already left the hospital," read the statement. "He will continue to have outpatient treatment in the Departments of Radiotherapy and Medical Oncology."

The 51-year-old underwent a lengthy operation on Oct. 24 to reduce pressure on his brain and remove remaining tumor tissues following two previous operations.

On Nov. 18 he had recovered sufficiently to leave intensive care, but was readmitted two weeks later for further surgery to place a cephalorachidian fluid VP shunt. However, Ballesteros was released back onto the ward the following day and has now been deemed fit to be discharged.

The hospital also revealed there would be a further statement later on Tuesday on the golfer's official Web site.

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