Maria Sharapova of Russia returns a serve against Kaia Kanepi of Estonia during their women's singles match at the Brisbane International tennis tournament in Brisbane, January 2, 2014. [Photo/Agencies]

Although the contests between the two have been one-sided, Sharapova herself says she needs "to win a few times in order to call it rivalry", the pair's frosty off-court relations ensured the clash is the biggest in the women's game.

When asked about her relationship with Williams following her victory over Kanepi, the Russian replied: "I have said everything I had to say about it."

The American, who has been at pains to discuss her more relaxed approach to tennis and life during the tournament, was slightly more forthcoming.

"I had a great talk with her," Williams said. "I don't have anything against her or anything."

Despite these protestations their body language is certain to be heavily scrutinised when they step onto Pat Rafter Arena on Friday.