After becoming a flashpoint of debate at Wimbledon when he coached Milos Raonic to the final while commentating for ESPN, John McEnroe announced today in a conference call that he would separate from Raonic at this year’s U.S. Open.
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“There’s been a discussion obviously,” McEnroe said, when asked by Richard Sandomir of the New York Times. “I think it’s best and easiest that at this point, at the end this week, having thought about it and for Milos’ sake and for ESPN and my sake I think it’s best that we stop right now doing what we’re doing so when the U.S. Open starts on Monday… It’s best to sort of separate it at this stage and to me it will just make life easier for everyone.”
McEnroe was asked if it meant if he was ending his relationship with Raonic or if it would resume after the U.S. Open.
He deliberated for a bit, explaining his reasoning, then stated:
“I don’t know that answer to that. I know that it’s best—whoever it is—that I don’t get involved in the major events.”
He added: “I’m not sure would be the honest answer.”
Raonic, seeded fifth, has yet to comment on the situation. He will face Dustin Brown in the first round in New York.