Defending champion Garbine Muguruza fought back to defeat Anett Kontaveit 6-7, 6-4, 6-2 while Venus Williams rolled past Kurumi Nara 6-3, 6-1.

The 2016 champion found herself down a set and a break before mounting a strong comeback on Philippe-Chatrier Court. Leaning on her big serve, she overcame nerves and the deficit to close strong. The Spaniard won 72 percent of her first-serve points in the match.

The 23-year old admitted that nerves played a part in her performance, “I think I was a little bit nervous when I started off because I knew she was going to be a tough opponent. She was very quiet, very relaxed, and I had to calm down.”

It took more than two hours before Muguruza could seal the victory but she survives and advances to play Yulia Putintseva next.

Meanwhile, Venus Williams was impressive against a feisty Nara as little sister watched in the gallery. As Serena Williams looked on, Venus overpowered Nara with massive groundstrokes, consistently placing her on defense.

With the win, she became the oldest woman to reach the third round at Roland Garros since Billie Jean King. The 36-year old is still searching for her first title at the French Open.

 “You know, it’s always a joy when you can control the match,” she said afterward. “That always feels good.”

With the women’s draw wide open, Venus is now looked upon as a strong contender. She will face Elise Mertens next.

“I just want to win, so whoever I play, I just would like to win that match. That’s how you have to be is greedy,” she said.

Venus was happy to see her sister cheering her on, “She knows exactly what it’s like out there, and she’s had a lot of success here. If she stays here through the end, I would like that.”