STWF Sports | BELLEAIR, Florida| (November, 12 2025) — A new name is set to make waves in women’s golf this week, and it’s one that’s already sparking international attention. Kai Trump, the 18-year-old granddaughter of U.S. President Donald Trump, will make her professional debut at The Annika — the LPGA’s prestigious event at Pelican Golf Club — after earning a sponsor’s exemption.

The teenager, who has already impressed major champion Rory McIlroy, is about to test her game on one of the most competitive stages in women’s golf.

A Rising Star With High-Profile Ties

Kai Trump, currently ranked 461st in the AJGA Girls standings, has only competed in three national junior events this season but has already drawn significant buzz both for her talent and her famous family connections. She has committed to play collegiate golf at the University of Miami next year, but this week marks her first foray into professional-level competition.

Adding to her unique golf lineage, her mother Vanessa Trump is dating Tiger Woods, while her grandfather’s well-known passion for golf has made the game part of the Trump family DNA.

In March, Kai appeared on her popular YouTube golf channel, where she played a friendly round with Rory McIlroy during the Genesis Open. During the round, she produced an eye-catching approach shot from the rough that landed near the pin — prompting McIlroy to praise her touch.

“Good shot, Kai,” McIlroy said. “You’re too good for this YouTube golf.”

Kai laughed off the compliment, replying with the confidence of a natural competitor:

“Honestly, I think that’s what it is — I’m just too good.”

The Annika Debut

Trump will join a 108-player field at The Annika, played on a par-70 layout that rewards precision and mental toughness. She’s scheduled to tee off Thursday at 12:32 p.m. local time on hole ten, paired with Japan’s Hinako Shibuno — the 2019 Women’s British Open champion — and Germany’s Olivia Cowan.

The event, named in honor of Annika Sörenstam, one of golf’s greatest icons, represents a milestone for any aspiring professional. For Kai Trump, it’s both an opportunity and a spotlight — one that comes with a mix of excitement and scrutiny.

Her invitation via sponsor’s exemption stirred mild controversy within golf circles, as some questioned whether her surname opened the door. Yet many within the LPGA community have welcomed the chance to see a promising young amateur test herself against elite competition.

Handling the Pressure

In her pre-tournament press conference, Kai faced a barrage of questions not about her swing or preparation — but about her grandfather, the President of the United States.

When asked if Donald Trump would attend the tournament, she smiled and deflected.

“He’s not coming this weekend,” she said. “He’s running the world right now, so a little busy. To me, he’s just a normal grandpa — always has been. It’s pretty cool, obviously, but to me it’s just normal.”

Pressed about their family golf rivalry, she revealed they often play together but kept the scoreline private.

“He’s pretty good,” she said. “We have some tight matches. We play a lot. We have a great time out there — we’re always on the same team as well.”

Her calm demeanor and poise with the media mirror the confidence she’s shown on the course — traits that will serve her well as she steps into the global spotlight this week.

Looking Ahead

Regardless of her performance in Florida, Kai Trump’s appearance at The Annika marks the beginning of a promising journey. The combination of natural ability, high-level mentorship, and early exposure to pressure situations has many insiders curious about her ceiling.

Her focus, she insists, remains purely on golf.

As the cameras follow every drive, chip, and putt, Kai Trump will look to make her debut more about her play than her last name — and perhaps prove that her talent, not her connections, is what truly sets her apart.

One thing is certain: the golf world will be watching closely as the next chapter of the Trump family’s relationship with the sport unfolds — this time led by a fearless teenager ready to take her first professional swing.