Berdych, Monfils Reach Monte Carlo Masters Semifinals

Gael Monfils has grabbed a place in the semi-finals of the Monte Carlo Masters courtesy of a 6-1 6-3 victory over Grigor Dimitrov. The Frenchman, who knocked out Roger Federer in the third round, looked comfortable on the clay surface as he broke his opponent at the first time of asking.

The flamboyant Monfils followed up on his surprise victory against Roger Federer in the previous round while Bulgarian ninth seed Dimitrov came onto the clay as just a shadow of the player who knocked out holder Stan Wawrinka on Thursday with the loss of just three games.

Meanwhile, Tomas Berdych advanced to the semifinals of the Monte Carlo Masters for the third time Friday after Milos Raonic retired with a foot injury.

Raonic called a trainer after dropping serve for the second time to trail 5-2 in the first set. Following a short discussion with the doctor, who had a close look at his strapped right foot, the big-serving Canadian went to see Berdych on the other side of the court to inform him of his decision to give up.

Berdych has yet to lose a set this week at the clay-court Masters tournament.

The duo will set up a much anticipated clash in the semis.

Nadal, an eight-time champion in Monte Carlo, will later play David Ferrer, and top-ranked Novak Djokovic will face Marin Cilic.