Maria Sharapova aims at winning the only Grand Slam that has eluded her in her illustrious career. She next faces Czech, Klara Zakopolova for a place in the last 8.

Sharapova is aiming for her third title this year and for her maiden Roland Garros title. With the No.1 ranking in sight, the Russian is presently ranked at No.2 in the World. She has had a good year so far and has reached deep into most of the tournaments she has played, her win-loss record of 29-5 says it all. Coming into the French Open, she must be full of confidence after lifting the Rome Masters. She is in some outstanding form and lost JUST FOUR GAMES in three matches here. She is definitely one of the favorites for the title and she justifying it very well!

Her opponent, Zakopolova as been playing some of the best tennis of her career and that at the age of 30! Her present ranking stands at 44 in the world and her win-loss record this year is a pinch towards to losing side at 12-13. She has defeated some good players en route to this fourth round berth and looks very strong when she engages in long rallies from the back of the court. She would be aiming to beat Sharapova and cause the biggest upset of the tournament by far.

The two have played thrice before this with Sharapova leading 2-1. Their only meeting on clay took place this year in Madrid where the Russian prevailed in two close sets.