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Justin Rose has apologised after incorrectly tweeting that golf legend Seve Ballesteros had passed away. Seve's family had today announced that his condition had worsened severely.

English European and PGA Tour player Justin Rose tweeted to his 53,000 followers on Friday evening:

"Just stepped off the course to hear about the death of Seve. One of my idols. What dignity and courage he showed thru what must be the hardest of times. That's when the true character of a man comes out. I saw how strong my dad was in his last days and I have no doubt Seve was the same. Sad day for golf."

Rose's tweet sent golf fans into a frenzy of speculation regarding his remarks, which the golfer quickly clarified a few minutes later:

"As I stepped off I answered Q's on his death. From golf reporters! I feel terrible if I have jumped the gun. Was on course for 5 hrs... Thought that something like that should've been factual! Felt compelled to say something about the great man."

The family of Spanish great Ballesteros had earlier released a statement on Seve's official website at around midday today to outline his deteriorating health.

The golfer was first diagnosed with cancer in 2008, when he underwent three operations to remove brain tumours and spent more than two months in hospital.

Edit: The passing of Seve Ballesteros has now been confirmed. Click here for more.