Serena Williams pulls out of Maria Sharapova French Open clash with injury

Serena Williams has withdrawn from her fourth-round clash with Maria Sharapova at the French Open through injury.

The 36-year-old American, playing in her first grand slam since giving birth to her daughter in September, said she has a muscle problem.

The showdown with Sharapova was eagerly awaited given the colourful history between the pair, and Williams' dominant record over the Russian of 19 wins to two.

However, it is Sharapova who will now progress to the quarter-finals.

Williams said: "Unfortunately I been having some issues with my pec muscle. Right now I can't actually serve so it's actually hard to play when I can't physically serve.

"I'm beyond disappointed. I gave up so much from time with my daughter and time with my family all for this moment. So it's really difficult to be in this situation."