Federer plays down Murray`s chances of US Open success

Cincinnati: Roger Federer played down Andy Murray`s elevation to the world number two ranking on Monday, saying the Scot would merely be one of many contenders for his US Open title next month.

The world number one steps up his preparations at the Cincinnati Masters this week, looking to hone his game before he bids to win his sixth consecutive US Open title and claim a record 16th grand slam crown.Murray lost to Federer in the final in New York last year but the Swiss said there were plenty of other players who could be just as dangerous. "If you look at last week`s draw (in Montreal), so many guys are very equal, I think, right now," Federer told reporters in Cincinnati. "The final was close, for instance. I think there are many guys who are beating each other right now so it`s quite an interesting dynamic.” "We all know Rafa (Nadal) was injured, so he couldn`t put in the fight he wished to concerning the rankings.” Bureau Report