Kai Trump receives guidance from her grandfather and Tiger Woods; the golf icon offers her an opportunity.

Kai Trump Makes Her LPGA Debut

This week, Kai Trump, the granddaughter of former President Donald Trump, is stepping onto the greens of the Pelican Golf Club in Bellaire, Florida, to kick off her LPGA career.

At just 18 years old, she has been given the ANNIKA sponsorship exemption—an opportunity designed for promising young golfers to display their skills.

Ahead of the big event, Trump shared some straightforward advice she received from her grandfather. “Go out and have fun. Just don’t get nervous,” she recalled.

Interestingly enough, Tiger Woods, who is currently in a relationship with Kai’s mother, Vanessa, also weighed in with his thoughts. “He’s the best golfer in the whole world, I’d say that, and even better as a person,” she noted. “His advice? Just enjoy it and go with the flow.” This sentiment seems fitting for someone about to enter the spotlight.

Kai practiced with Annika Sorenstam, the tournament organizer and LPGA legend. Sorenstam spoke highly of her, noting, “She’s eager to improve, asking about my techniques while sharing her own.” The young golfer’s enthusiasm for learning is something that struck Sorenstam, prompting her to reflect on her own youth and whether she’d had the confidence to ask experienced players for help. “It’s impressive,” Sorenstam mused.

Tournaments like this, however, come with their own pressures. Sorenstam remarked, “You see a lot of Secret Service around here; it’s different this year.” She added, “Being 18 and constantly in the public eye, I can only imagine how nerve-wracking that must be.” It sounds like support from friends and family will be crucial for Kai.

“Let’s give this girl a chance,” Sorenstam encouraged.

Meanwhile, reigning champion Nelly Korda is looking to defend her title after winning the event consecutively in 2021 and 2022.

Kai has been making waves on social media, particularly on YouTube, sharing moments like playing golf with her grandfather at Trump National in Washington, D.C., or attending the Ryder Cup. “To me, he’s just Grandpa,” she expressed in an interview. “We play golf regularly. It’s nothing out of the ordinary for us.”