Eighteen-time Grand Slam winner Rafael Nadal has advanced to the US Open semi-finals, the latest strong performance of what has been a spectacular year for the Spaniard.With Italy's 24th seed Matteo Berrettini awaiting him after defeating Gael Monfils in their last eight tie, Nadal will feature in his 33rd Grand Slam semi-final.Starting the year with a final at the Australian Open, Nadal's latest success makes it 10 semi-finals or better in just 11 tournaments.Having won his 18th Grand Slam at Roland Garros in June and showing no dip in form, Nadal has put himself in the perfect position to go within one Grand Slam title of Roger Federer with victory at Flushing Meadows.After his 6-4, 7-5, 6-2 win over Argentinian Diego Schwartzman, Nadal spoke of his latest semi-final tie.

"To see myself in the situation to lose both breaks in a row was tough, but I'm super happy with the way I accepted the challenge," Nadal said.

"Here I am, semi-finals, it means everything to me.

"Physically I'm fine. Today was a heavy day, big humidity, and I sweat a lot. I had some big moments at the end of the second set and beginning of the third, but the last few games I felt good again.

"Sometimes under these conditions it's tough, but honestly I am happy that I had some critical moments at the end of the second and the beginning of the third."

Despite three of the last four in the competition having never played a Grand Slam semi-final, the 33-year-old showed he was well aware of the challenge awaiting him in the penultimate round.

"I saw him play. He has big serves, big forehands, and is super confident. He makes big steps forward every week so it will be a big challenge, but now is the moment to keep going."

Victory at Flushing Meadows or not, there is no doubt 2019 has been one of the best season's of his career so far, as the Manacor-born star has treated fans to some of the best tennis of his career so far.