Federer Inches Closer to 1st French Open Title

Roger Federer of Switzerland yesterday took a step closer to his first French Open title.

The world No. 2 defeated Gael Monfils of France, 7-6, 6-2, 6-4, in two hours and 10 minutes to qualify for his 20 consecutive Grand Slam semifinal. The Swiss wunderkind is also just two victories away from completing his elusive career Grand Slam.

Federer is the heavy favorite to win the men’s title in Paris since No. 1 Rafael Nadal of Spain, No. 3 Andy Murray of Britain, and No. 4 Novak Djokovic of Serbia have all been eliminated.

Federer plays No. 5 Juan Martin Del Potro of Argentina in the semifinal Friday.

On the women’s side, world No. 2 Serena Williams of the United States failed in her bid to win a third consecutive major by losing to No. 7 Svetlana Kuznetsova of Russia 6-7, 7-5, 5-7, in two hours and 46 minutes.

Kuznetsova will face No. 32 Samantha Stosur of Australia in the semifinal.

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