Wozniacki finds rock

ASB Classic star Caroline Wozniacki says her engagement to former basketballer David Lee has helped her become a better player.

The world No 3 is the top seed for this week’s tournament and will play her first round match against Madison Brengle on Tuesday.

She spoke about her engagement last month to Lee, a two-time NBA all-star, who played for the Knicks, Warriors, Celtics, Mavericks and Spurs over a glittering 12-year career.

‘‘I’m very lucky to have found a guy like David,’’ Wozniacki said. ‘‘He’s amazing and really supportive and he’s my rock.

‘‘It’s been really easy going and I enjoy that. He keeps me in check and I like that.’’

Having a professional sports person as a partner means Wozniacki can talk to someone who understands what she experiences out on the circuit and the 27-year-old Dane says that’s been been great for her.

‘‘I think it’s helped a lot,’’ she said. ‘‘He’s been my biggest supporter and no matter if he’s been there at the tournament or cheering on from back home.

‘‘He’s made everything seem much clearer and easy. There is less pressure and everything outside of tennis is going great, so that makes it easier on court to focus just on that and enjoy it.’’

Lee isn’t in Auckland, but he will meet up with Wozniacki in Melbourne for the Australian Open.

By that time, Wozniacki could be back at No 1 in the world again. That would depend on her winning the Classic and Garbine Mugaruza and Simona Halep not doing so well at their tournaments this week.

Wozniacki first got to No 1 in 2010 and received some criticism at the time for reaching the top of the rankings without winning a grand slam.