Seven-time champion Roger Federer was stunned by sixth seed Milos Raonic downed the Swiss maestro in a titanic five-set struggle as

In the process, Milos Raonic became the first Canadian man to reach a Grand Slam final as he triumphed 6-3, 6-7 (3/7), 4-6, 7-5, 6-3.

It was 25-year-old Raonic's first win on grass against a top 10 opponent and shattered Federer's hopes of going on to claim a record eighth All England Club crown and 18th major.

"There was a little opening and I took it," said Raonic who looked down and out in the fourth set.

"It's a big impact for Canada. Hopefully, it will be even bigger if I win on Sunday."

After weathering an early storm, Federer had been in complete control of the semi-final, his 10th at the tournament, until the tie turned suddenly and dramatically in the fourth set.

The 34-year-old, bidding to become the oldest finalist in 42 years, squandered three break points in the set and slipped from 40-0 up on serve in the 12th game.

Federer, whose last Grand Slam crown came at Wimbledon in 2012, had already required five sets to get past Marin Cilic in the quarter-finals, saving three match points in the process.

And the effort took its toll on the 17-time major winner in the decider where he needed treatment on his right thigh and jarred his left knee and foot in a worrying fall.

Raonic, nine years his junior, pounced for a 3-1 lead while Federer had to save two more break points in the sixth game.

The Canadian held his nerve and claimed victory when Federer went wide with a weary forehand which condemned the Swiss star to his first loss in a Wimbledon semi-final.

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With AFP inputs