An elusive French Open crown loomed closer for Roger Federer after the Swiss put on a vintage display to reach the semi-finals with a 7-6, 6-2, 6-4 win over Gael Monfils on Wednesday.

With four-times champion and nemesis Rafael Nadal no longer on his horizon at Roland Garros, expectations have been mounting that this might turn out to be the world number two's best chance of getting his hands on the Musketeer's Cup.

Federer made sure the dream stayed alive when he overwhelmed Frenchman Monfils to advance to his 20th successive Grand Slam semi-final.

"I was very nervous before this match, yesterday and today," said the 27-year-old, who now stands just two matches away from equalling Pete Sampras's record of 14 Grand Slam titles.

"But I have a lot of experience. I know that when I step on the court, I will play well. Or very well."

He awaits the winner of the encounter between Argentine fifth seed Juan Martin Del Potro and Spaniard Tommy Robredo.