Sharapova looking to end losing run against Serena Williams

Maria Sharapova will attempt to end a 14-year, 18-match hoodoo against Serena Williams on Monday.

The Russian has not beaten her rival since 2004, the year she claimed her only two career wins over Williams, one of which came in the Wimbledon final.

Since then Sharapova has served a doping ban while Williams has just returned to action after having a daughter.

Maternity leave means Williams, the 23-time grand slam winner, is now ranked 451 in the world, and the American said with a grin: “She’s probably a favourite in this match.

“But I think this will be another test. I think this is just one of her best surfaces, and she always does really, really well here.

“So this would be a good opportunity for me kind of to see where I am and just hopefully continue to go forward.”

In the men’s draw Rafael Nadal, still on course for an 11th Roland Garros title, faces Germany’s world number 70 Max Marterer.

“He’s a player that has a good potential, said Nadal, who turned 32 on Sunday. “He’s a player that has a good serve, good forehand. He hits the ball with big top spin. He has power, so he’s a dangerous opponent.”