THE BNP Paribas Women's Tennis Association (WTA) Finals Singapore presented by SC Global began on Sunday, and two memorable images keep flashing in my mind about Caroline Wozniacki, the Danish darling of the court and one of the eight singles players taking part in the US$7 million competition.

The first was her presence at the Sentosa Golf Club five years ago. At that year's Barclays Singapore Open, she was seated on the lap of her then-boyfriend, Northern Ireland golfer Rory McIlroy, in a golf buggy.

She flashed a bright smile as wide as the par-five 18th hole of the Serapong course. McIlroy was trying to contain his embarrassment as security personnel kept the chasing fans from hounding them.