The news that Kai Trump, the 18-year-old granddaughter of President Donald Trump and an amateur golfer committed to the University of Miami in Fall 2026, has received a sponsor’s exemption to play in The ANNIKA driven by Gainbridge at Pelican next month is guaranteed to generate headlines.
The LPGA’s motivation for Kai Trump’s invitation is clear. Ricki Lasky, LPGA Chief Tour Business and Operations Officer, said: “Sponsor invitations are an important way to spotlight emerging talent and bring new attention to our tournaments and the LPGA.”
The massive viewership Clark generated made her return next month not just expected, but a necessity to ensure the tournament and women’s golf is put firmly in the spotlight.
But a spot in the pro-am is one thing, teeing up in the tournament is another. Is Trump the most deserving player to receive such a coveted invitation to debut on the LPGA Tour?
She is currently competing in junior and amateur tournaments, including the American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) with a ranking of 461st, and the Srixon Medallist Tour in the South Florida PGA section; her best result this year was a T3rd finish on the Srixon Tour. Therefore, on paper, I would definitely say no.
For every available exemption, the up-and-coming college stars, struggling tour players, and international talents are grinding away and would give anything just for a chance to compete.
When a spot goes to a player whose main credential seems to be her last name and her social media reach, it must feel like a slap in the face to those who are further down the road in their journey of dedicating their lives to golf. I can only imagine how frustrating this must feel for them, but I guess that’s just the way the world works.
I understand that a tournament is a business, and clearly Trump’s…
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