Kai Trump, granddaughter of former President Donald Trump, is making waves in the golf world as she prepares to make her professional debut on the LPGA Tour. The 18-year-old high school senior, who recently committed to play collegiate golf at the University of Miami, will be competing as an amateur at The ANNIKA, an LPGA event held at Pelican Golf Club in Belleair, Florida. This tournament marks a significant milestone for Kai as she steps onto a major professional stage for the first time.
Kai’s decision to participate in The ANNIKA came through a sponsorship exemption, a special invitation extended to promising emerging golfers to showcase their skills among the sport’s elite. Reflecting on the opportunity, Kai said she accepted the invitation “in a heartbeat” and has been diligently practicing ever since. “It’s an honor,” she told reporters, expressing gratitude to the LPGA and the Doyle family, who host the event. “I would like to thank the LPGA and the Doyle family for the opportunity. I'm looking forward to it. It’s really cool to say that I’m playing my first LPGA event, and I’m only a senior in high school.”
Her debut will take place on Thursday, with her tee time scheduled for 12:32 p.m. Eastern Time. Kai will tee off from the 10th hole, paired with experienced players Hinako Shibuno and Olivia Cowan. She will be just a couple of groups behind some of the tournament’s biggest names, including three-time and reigning champion Nelly Korda, as well as notable competitors like Charley Hull, Lexi Thompson, and Rose Zhang. Competing alongside such accomplished golfers is a thrilling prospect for Kai, who sees this as a valuable learning experience.
“I’m going to learn a lot no matter what happens,” Kai said. “I’m just going to go out there and have fun. Competing with the best players is going to be cool… inside the ropes playing with them, learning what kind of shots they hit and what they do on the course. I’m just looking forward to playing with the best.” Despite the excitement, Kai admitted she will be feeling “nervous,” though she described it as “definitely a nervous-excitement,” reflecting both anticipation and eagerness.
Kai Trump’s journey in golf is not just about her family name; she has been steadily building her own credentials. She has developed a following on social media, especially on YouTube, where she shares glimpses of her golfing life. Recently, she posted a video featuring a round of golf with her grandfather at Trump National Golf Club in Washington, D.C., as well as moments from the Ryder Cup. Despite her grandfather’s high-profile status as a former president, Kai emphasizes their personal relationship on the golf course.
“I just don’t view it as him being the president. I view it as, he’s my grandpa. We’re gonna go out there and play golf,” Kai explained in an interview with Fox News Digital. “We play golf all the time. It’s nothing new.” This down-to-earth approach helps her stay grounded as she navigates the pressures of competitive golf and public attention.
In addition to familial support, Kai has also received advice from some of the game’s greats. Notably, golf legend Tiger Woods encouraged her to “give her a chance,” a vote of confidence that surely adds to her motivation. With such endorsements and a strong personal drive, Kai is clearly committed to pursuing golf seriously.
Looking ahead, Kai is determined to take the next step and play professionally after her collegiate career. She reiterated her goal in her recent interview, stating plainly, “I’ll try to do that and give it my best shot.” Her commitment to the sport goes beyond casual play; she is focused on developing her skills and making a name for herself on the professional circuit.
Kai’s upcoming LPGA debut is a significant moment not only for her but also for the broader golf community, which often celebrates rising stars who bring fresh energy and passion to the sport. As she tees off among seasoned professionals, all eyes will be on how this young golfer performs under the bright lights of a major tournament.
Her journey symbolizes the blend of tradition and new talent that defines golf’s future. With a famous family name, undeniable talent, and a clear ambition to succeed, Kai Trump is poised to carve out her own legacy in the world of golf.
As she steps onto the Pelican Golf