MADRID — Golf great Seve Ballesteros announced the launch of a cancer foundation today as he went before the press for the first time since undergoing brain tumor surgery nine months ago.

"I want to do my bit to battle this disease," Ballesteros said at a reception in a Madrid hotel.

A smiling Ballesteros thanked doctors at Madrid's La Paz hospital and all those who supported him during his ordeal.

"I am a lucky man, I have a second opportunity and my desire is to help others," he said while presenting the Seve Ballesteros Foundation to help fight cancer.

The foundation said it aims to contribute to cancer research, particularly the treatment of brain tumors.