South African track star's life to be placed under microscope after Valentine's Day tragedy, AFP reports in Cape Town.

Oscar Pistorius: champion athlete who beat the odds to inspire millions worldwide, or disgraced hero with a penchant for guns, beautiful women and fast cars? Starting on Monday, both versions of South Africa's double amputee Olympian will be under intense scrutiny when the 27-year-old goes on trial for murder after gunning down his girlfriend on Valentine's Day a year ago.

Before the shock shooting, Pistorius was one of the world's most admired sportsmen.