Novak Djokovic was tested but advanced while Venus Williams cruised at the French Open on Friday.

The men’s defending champion found himself down 2-1 after three sets but rallied for a 5-7, 6-3, 3-6, 6-1, 6-1 win against Diego Schwartzman. The Argentine was fast out of the gate striking precision groundstrokes much to the delight of the Paris crowd. But Djokovic settled play down in the second to even the match and looked to take control. However, Schwartzman had different plans as he gained momentum, executing well and secured the third set.

But it was a warning from chair umpire Carlos Ramos that turned the match around for the former world no.1. Djokovic was unhappy he received the warning for language and after an angry exchange, he shifted to another level and appeared to wear down Schwartzman.

Despite the loss, the 5’7” Schwartzman delighted the crowd who showed their appreciation afterward. He gave every drop of energy he had in the match. Djokovic embraced him at the net after sealing the match, showing his respect for his efforts.

Djokovic will have to continue his efforts in Paris without new coach Andre Agassi who must leave due to prior commitments. But the American showed up during the match to lend his support.

 “I was focused on the screen and I saw obviously people reacting when he arrived,” said Djokovic. “He was not supposed to be here today because we have finished yesterday with our in-person collaboration here in Paris. I appreciate that. I respect that very much that he managed to do things and move his commitments around so he could come and watch.”

The two-seed will face Albert Ramos-Vinolas next.

Meanwhile, Williams continued her stellar play at Roland Garros with a 6-3, 6-1 victory against Elise Mertens.

Using her power game to her advantage, Williams pounded Mertens and controlled play throughout the match. She has yet to drop a set in the tournament.

Once again, sister Serena watched from the stands as Venus continued to inspire many to pick her as a favorite to win the title. However, to do so, she will have to get through a tough fourth-round opponent in Timea Bacsinszky who eliminated Venus in Paris last season.

Williams responded to the fact that she hasn’t been tested in the tournament yet. “I’m not looking for any tests – I’m looking to run away with it,” she said with a smile. “My goal is to improve every round and today I feel like I improved even more than the last rounds and played the big points well. I feel confident that the next round is going to be another opportunity to improve and to play better and to play better. That’s my focus at the moment.”