French Open 2018: Maria Sharapova reveals what Serena Williams showdown means to her

The Russian needed barely an hour to swat away a limp challenge from former world No 1 Pliskova, triumphing in straight sets 6-2 6-1 to keep her hopes of a third French Open title on track.

But Sharapova, who is currently ranked 28 in the world, is likely to have to go through a familiar foe if she wants to claim victory at Roland Garros, with Williams fancied to beat Goerges to set up a fascinating clash between the two rivals.

Sharapova has beaten Williams only twice in 21 meetings with the American – but claims she would relish the challenge of securing a win over her nemesis.

“I think any time you play against Serena you know what you're up against,” Sharapova said.

“You know the challenge that is upon you. You know, despite the record that I have against her, I always look forward to coming out on the court and competing against the best player.

“I will look forward to doing that if she wins this one.”

Williams, a 23-time Grand Slam winner, was made to work for her victory over Kristyna Pliskova in the previous round, winning 7-6 6-4.

And, while Sharapova conceded that it would not be easy to beat Williams, the 6ft 2ins superstar promised to fight for her place in the quarter-finals.

“I think there is a lot of things in her game that she's done much better than I have. I mean, the records don't certainly elaborate on that. Numbers don't lie,” she added.

“But of course, I came into Europe and Stuttgart with not a great record, not playing great tennis with a lot of injuries, and have been able to turn that around a little bit.

“Being able to put myself in this position of playing better tennis. That's what I continue to work for, of course. You don't put those hours on the back courts in Bradenton-frickin-Florida, to – you know what I mean – to just show up at events like this and not bring it.”