US Open 2016: Angelique Kerber closer to number one ranking with quarter-final victory

Angelique Kerber took another step towards becoming world number one as she sailed past Roberta Vinci to reach the US Open semi-finals.

Kerber will snatch top spot away from Serena Williams if she equals or betters the American's performance at Flushing Meadows and she turned up the heat with another ruthless victory.

The German - who won the Australian Open and was runner-up in Wimbledon earlier this year - beat Vinci 7-5 6-0 in Arthur Ashe Stadium and will now face either Caroline Wozniacki or Anastasija Sevastova for a place in Saturday's final.

Williams must reach the final again in New York to have a chance of staying world number one and if she plays Kerber, the American would have to win. 

"When I was a kid I was always dreaming to being the number one," Kerber said.

"Let's see. I mean, there are still matches to go. Also, Serena has to play as well very good.,

"I'm looking forward to play, first of all, my next match. If the day will come, it will be amazing."

Meanwhile, in the men's singles, Gael Monfils booked his place in the semi-final with a straight-sets victory over fellow Frenchman Lucas Pouille.