Roger Federer easily beats Gael Monfils at French Open to reach semis for 5th straight year

Federer into French semis for 5th year in a row

PARIS — Roger Federer moved within two victories of completing a career Grand Slam at the French Open by beating 11th-seeded Gael Monfils of France 7-6 (6), 6-2, 6-4 Wednesday.

Federer reached the semifinals for the 20th consecutive Grand Slam tournament, extending his own record.

He’ll play No. 5 Juan Martin del Potro or No. 16 Tommy Robredo for a berth in the final. Federer lost to Rafael Nadal in each of the past three French Open finals. Nadal is no longer around this year after being upset in the fourth round.

Federer is seeking his 14th Grand Slam singles title, which would tie Pete Sampras’ career record.