Tom Watson's wife Hilary dies of cancer aged 63

Hilary Watson, wife of golf legend Tom Watson, has died aged 63 after losing her battle with cancer on Wednesday evening.

Hilary underwent surgery and other treatment in May 2018, but she had been battling pancreatic cancer - the highest mortality rate of all forms of the disease. Tom and Hilary had been married since 1999. 

Watson, a five-time Open champion and eight-time major winner, spoke about his wife's condition when competing in his final Senior Open at Royal Lytham & St Annes in July, just a few weeks before his 70th birthday.

“I’ve had a good career playing professional golf all these years,” he said at the time

“I’ve run across so many fine people who have helped me and supported me. First of all, my wife who is battling cancer now. It’s going to give me some time to go out and compete with her.”

A number of Tour professionals reacted to the news on Twitter and sent their sympatheties to Tom and the rest of his family.

Ernie Els tweeted: "We are sorry to hear the loss of a very special lady Hilary Watson. Our deepest condolences to Tom and family at this time."

Justin Rose wrote: "Very sad to hear of the passing of Hilary Watson, wife of Tom Watson, thoughts are with Tom and his family at this sad time."

Paul McGinley said: "Very sad to hear of Tom Watson's wife Hilary passing. Ally and I really enjoyed hers as well as Tom's captaincy over the two years leading to the Ryder Cup 2014."