Mickelson: Back problem no big deal

Phil Mickelson will not let a sore back dampen his excitement at leading off the United States’ Presidents Cup defence alongside Ryder Cup playing partner Anthony Kim tonight in San Francisco.

As the Americans begin their attempt to beat an International side for the sixth time in eight meetings in the Ryder Cup-style competition at Harding Park, US team captain Fred Couples has resurrected a pairing which earned 1.5 points out of two on the opening day at Valhalla a year ago against Europe.