NEW YORK • American tennis legend John McEnroe has decided to sever his coaching ties with Milos Raonic, who is considered a potential winner at the US Open.

The 57-year-old said "it will make life easier", after he was brought on as a coaching consultant to the Canadian before Wimbledon, where he also served as a TV commentator.

He did not serve as a commentator on any of Raonic's matches for ESPN until the final, when he was asked to provide insight into his player instead of the typical analysis.

ESPN executive Jamie Reynolds had said before the US Open that he was still comfortable with that arrangement as long as the network was transparent about the relationship. But McEnroe said in an ESPN conference call that "it's best that we stop right now doing what we're doing".

Raonic, the world No. 6, will continue to work with full-time coaches Carlos Moya and Riccardo Piatti.

"Milos has two coaches. I came in an advisory role before Wimbledon. He's got a great team around him," McEnroe said.

"I think it's best and easiest at this point. For Milos' sake, for ESPN and my sake, I think it's best that we stop right now.

"So, when the US Open starts on Monday, he's got his people. I'm pulling for him and want him to do well. But it's best to sort of separate at this stage. It will just make life easier for everyone."

Raonic, 25, starts his US Open campaign tomorrow against Germany's Dustin Brown.

AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE