Mickelson says he's fine, minor back injury 'way overblown'

SAN FRANCISCO -- Phil Mickelson says a minor back injury that flared up last week during practice will not keep him out of the Presidents Cup matches this week at Harding Park.

Mickelson said his lower back tightened up Friday when he was chipping and putting. He played only nine holes Tuesday, and said he would play another nine Wednesday as a precaution.

"It's not a big deal. I'm fine," Mickelson said after holing a 60-foot birdie putt to finish off a friendly match during practice. "This is being way overblown."

Mickelson says he is limited practice "just to be cautious until the inflammation goes down," and that he was able to swing freely without any pain or discomfort.