By Julian Linden NEW YORK (Reuters) - Andy Murray has scoffed at John McEnroe's suggestion that this week's U.S. Open represented his best chance of winning a grand slam.
The American said Murray was in great form after winning a lead-up event in Cincinnati while his three main rivals, Roger Federer, Rafa Nadal and Novak Djokovic, all had health concerns.
But Murray, who has played in three grand slam finals but lost them all, said McEnroe's comments were unhelpful.
"It's a silly thing to say," the Scotsman told a news conference.
"I have a chance of winning for sure. Whether it's my best chance or not, no one has a clue like that."
"Someone like John who has played hundreds and hundreds and thousands of matches probably knows that one bad day and you can put yourself out of the tournament," Murray said.
"Especially toward the latter stages when you're playing against ... three of maybe the three greatest players ever. You're going to have to play an incredible event to win.
"So I feel like I'm ready to do that. But to say it's my best chance, no one knows."
Murray will open his campaign against India's top-ranked singles player Somdev Devvarman on either Tuesday or Wednesday.
The pair have never met before and the odds are heavily stacked in the Briton's favor but he said he was not taking anything for granted.
(Editing by Ian Ransom)
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