French Open: Serena Williams to play Maria Sharapova in 4th round today

Serena Williams and Maria Sharapova's game is one of the most celebrated rivalries in the world of Tennis.

And once again, the two will lock horns in the fourth round of the French Open on Monday, in their first match since the 2016 Australian Open.

Williams has won their last 18 meetings, with Sharapova's only two victories coming in 2004.

Speaking on her rivalry, William's said she does not have any negative feelings towards Maria Sharapova and is surprised the Russian's recent autobiography was so much about her.

The 23 Grand Slam described the book as 100% hearsay and said women should encourage each other rather than detailing locker-room incidents in a less than positive light.

"I think the book was 100% hearsay, which was a little bit disappointing," she said. I have cried in the locker room many times after a loss, and that's what I have seen a lot of people do."

"I think it's normal. I think if anything, it shows the passion and the desire and, you know, the will that you have to want to go out there and do the best. I think what happens there should definitely maybe stay there and not necessarily talk about it in a not-so-positive way in a book.

"I don't have any negative feelings towards her, which again, was a little disappointing to see in that hearsay book. A lot of people always assume that I feel a different way and it's not true.

Williams and Sharapova have won five French Open singles titles between them, and both have played extremely well over the first three rounds at Roland Garros.

Williams' biggest concern may be a lack of matches. The French Open marks only her third competitive appearance since the 2017 Australian Open, which was her last tournament before becoming a mother in September.