BELLEAIR, Fla. (FN) — Kai Trump, the 18-year-old granddaughter of President Donald Trump, is set to make her debut on the LPGA Tour after receiving a sponsor exemption to compete in The ANNIKA driven by Gainbridge at Pelican, one of the tour’s most competitive events.
The tournament, scheduled for November 13–16 at Pelican Golf Club in Belleair, Florida, is the penultimate stop on the LPGA calendar and regularly features one of the strongest fields outside the majors. Past champions include world No. 1 Nelly Korda and major winner Lilia Vu.
Trump, a senior at The Benjamin School in Palm Beach, Florida, has committed to play collegiate golf at the University of Miami. She currently ranks No. 461 in the American Junior Golf Association standings, but tournament organizers say her inclusion reflects a broader effort to spotlight emerging talent and expand the sport’s reach.
“This is a dream come true,” Trump said in a statement released Tuesday. “I’ve always wanted to compete with the best in the world, and I’m incredibly grateful for this opportunity.”
The ANNIKA, named after Hall of Famer Annika Sörenstam, is known for blending elite competition with mentorship and youth development. The event’s organizers said Trump’s participation aligns with the tournament’s mission to inspire the next generation of female golfers.
Ricki Lasky, the LPGA’s Chief Tour Business and Operations Officer, defended the decision to grant Trump a sponsor exemption. “Kai’s growing visibility and passion for the game help introduce golf to new audiences, especially among younger fans,” Lasky said.
While Trump’s competitive record is modest compared to her future peers, her presence is expected to draw attention to the event. She will tee off alongside some of the sport’s biggest names, including Lexi Thompson, Brooke Henderson, and defending champion Vu.
Golf analysts have noted that sponsor exemptions are often used to promote rising stars or players with strong public profiles. “It’s not unusual for tournaments to invite young amateurs with potential or public interest,” said LPGA commentator Karen Stupples. “It’s part of growing the game.”
Trump’s appearance is likely to generate media interest beyond the fairways, given her family’s political prominence. However, tournament officials emphasized that her selection was based on her commitment to the sport and her potential as a future professional.
As she prepares for her first LPGA start, Trump said she’s focused on learning from the experience. “I know I’ll be up against incredible players,” she said. “But I’m ready to give it everything I’ve got.”
