Luke Donald went into the first round of the Madrid Masters somewhat inspired by having won the Pro-Am with Seve Ballesteros’ oldest son, Javier as one his amateur partners.

Donald’s team posted a 26-under par score on the El Enrin course to win by a shot from the sides captained by David Howell and Ricardo Gonzalez who finished on 25-under par.

Luke Donald and Javier Ballesteros on route to victory in the Madrid Masters Pro-Am. (Photo - www.golfbytourmiss.com)

The occasion was unique for Donald given the reigning World No. 1 never got to play alongside Ballesteros who passed away during the weekend of the Spanish Open in Madrid earlier this year.

“I never got to play with Seve so I felt quite fortunate to play alongside his son,” said Donald.

“It almost felt like I was playing with Seve in a way because his son Javier, who plays off scratch, has a lot of the same mannerisms.

“He reminded me so much like his dad and he’s a good player, playing off scratch, and he looks like he has a real flair for the game just like his old man.”

Donald recorded six birdies but also two bogeys in a first round four under par 68.

“It was a bit frustrating the way I played as I felt like I left a few out there but overall it was a good solid start,” said Donald.

“There was a couple of careless mistakes like finding the water at the 18th or my ninth hole and I then missed what was a short birdie putt at my 17th.

“But the three of us, Edoardo and Alvaro (Quiros), all played very well and we sort of dragged each other along, so overall it was an enjoyable day.”

However it was playing partner and victorious Ryder Cup colleague, Edoardo Molinari who set the early mark and in the process establishing a new course record of a six under par 66.