Tiger Woods is coming back, but first he plans to have a word with Phil Mickelson.
Woods announced Thursday that he would enter next week’s Buick Invitational in San Diego. It will be his first tournament since undergoing surgery on his left knee in December.
Woods has been taking it slowly. He played his first 18-hole round Tuesday, shooting a 66 at his club in Orlando.
“Things are progressing nicely,” Woods said on his Web site. “I’m starting to get accustomed to having full practices and I’m excited about working on my game again.”
Woods also said he intends to speak with Mickelson, who caused a fuss after being quoted as saying Woods wins despite playing with inferior equipment.
Even though Mickelson tried to clarify his statements Wednesday, Woods said he wants to hear it from him first.
“I heard it was said in fun and jest, but until I talk to him, I really don’t know,” said Woods, who uses Nike clubs. “When I find out, I’ll get a better perspective.
“Phil is entitled to his own opinion, but as everyone knows, I don’t switch equipment until I find something as good or better than what I have been playing with. I’ve said it time and time again.”
