no worse struggle than the one that is never fought

from a New York Times story on the competition between Mexican central bank governor, Agustín Carstens and French finance minister, Christine Lagarde to become the new director of the I.M.F.:

For Mr. Carstens, long-shot chances are no reason to forgo seeking the position. “It’s essential to take the risk,” he said. He cited a Mexican expression, “There is no worse struggle than the one that is never fought.”

Emerging Nations Warm to Lagarde to Lead I.M.F.
By LIZ ALDERMAN and KEITH BRADSHER
Published: June 7, 2011
http://www.nytimes.com/2011/06/08/
business/global/08fund.html