World number one Roger Federer sped into the Monte Carlo Masters Series semi-finals when he thrashed Spaniard David Ferrer to clinch his 500th professional victory on Friday.

The Swiss, who has never dropped a set against the claycourt specialist in their six encounters, won 6-4, 6-0 and will meet either France's Richard Gasquet or 2003 French Open champion Juan Carlos Ferrero of Spain for a place in Sunday's final.

Following two exchanges of breaks, Federer stepped up a gear and broke decisively in the ninth game when Ferrer sent a forehand wide.

The second set was a mere formality for the Swiss, who wrapped up the win in 58 minutes.

"I'm really happy to have won my 500th game here in Monte Carlo," Federer said in a courtside interview.

"David is a very good player. Beating him 6-4, 6-0 on clay is very good for me. I like to play against him: he is a good player and I win. It was a good test."

Czech Tomas Berdych came back from the brink of elimination to advance with a 5-7, 6-3, 6-0 victory over Swede Robin Soederling.

Tenth seed Berdych will play either German qualifier Philipp Kohlschreiber or holder Rafael Nadal for a place in Sunday's final.

Nadal is hoping to extend his record winning streak on clay to 65 matches.

Following an exchange of breaks, Soederling took his opponent's serve in the 12th game to clinch the opening set when Berdych sent a forehand wide.

The Swede opened a 3-0 gap in the second set before Berdych suddenly woke up and won 12 games in a row.

"I started badly today but then things changed. I'm really happy to be in a position to prepare for tomorrow's semi-final," Berdych told reporters.