Do you feel any pressure about defending your HSBC Women's Champions title, especially so because you won the event by a mile (11 shots ahead of second-placed Annika Sorenstam) last year?

OCHOA: It was a great week for me. I had a really good pre-season, I worked really hard and when I got to Singapore, everything just went in the right direction.

I hope to have a good start this year. I'm feeling good and I like the course. I will be in Singapore playing my best golf and it will be beautiful if I can defend my title.

Who do you see as your biggest challengers?

I DON'T like to name players because all of them are very competitive and playing at a high level. I always try to concentrate only on my game.

I practise a lot and also have enough time for rest. I always try to stay one step ahead and not to get distracted.

What are your views on the Tanah Merah Garden course?

LAST year, I took advantage of the par fives. I had a lot of eagle chances, although I don't think I made any eagles. And I think my putting was really good. I had a lot of practice. Those things are the key.

I'm going to do the same this year and concentrate on making eagles and birdies.

There seems to be an Asian upswing in women's golf. This was also borne by the fact that Asia won the Lexus Cup again. What do you attribute this to?

THE ASIANS are successful because of their strong work ethic. And they make a lot of sacrifices. I also think having a role model to follow is very important. All of us can learn from them and maybe we will see more Mexicans winning in future.

Has your life changed since you announced your big day?

I THINK my big day is more of a motivation than a distraction.

It will be a new part of my life and I feel very fortunate. It is important for me to be happy outside of golf and to have balance in life.

This year feels special because of that.