Kai Trump, granddaughter of US President Donald Trump, is set to make her LPGA Tour debut after receiving a sponsor invitation to compete at The ANNIKA at Pelican tournament, scheduled for November 13–16 at the Pelican Golf Club in Belleair, Florida.
“My dream has been to compete with the best in the world on the LPGA Tour,” Kai said in a statement published on the LPGA’s website. “This event will be an incredible experience. I look forward to meeting and competing against so many of my heroes and mentors in golf as I make my LPGA Tour debut.”
The 18-year-old high school senior, who is the eldest child of Donald Trump Jr., is currently ranked 461st in the American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) standings and has committed to play collegiate golf at the University of Miami.
Beyond the fairway, Kai has built a strong social media presence, boasting millions of followers across various platforms — a factor that LPGA officials say could help introduce the sport to new and younger audiences.
The $3.25 million tournament serves as the penultimate event of the LPGA season, ahead of the Tour Championship in Naples, Florida, from November 20–23. The 2024 edition was won by American star Nelly Korda.
Other sponsor exemptions for this year’s event include Anne-Sterre den Dunnen of Wake Forest University (Netherlands) and Lauryn Nguyen of Northwestern University (USA).
“Sponsor invitations are an important way to spotlight emerging talent and bring new attention to our tournaments,” said Ricki Lasky, LPGA Chief Tour Business and Operations Officer.
“Kai’s broad following and reach are helping introduce golf to new audiences, especially among younger fans. We’re excited to see her take this next step in her journey.”
Kai’s inclusion adds a high-profile dimension to an already competitive field — and marks the latest example of the LPGA’s effort to bridge professional golf with the next generation of players and fans.
