Kai Trump Concludes Professional Golf Debut, Overcoming Nerves
Kai Trump, the eldest granddaughter of former U.S. President Donald Trump, made her professional golf debut at The Annika tournament. The event took place at Pelican Golf Club in Florida, and Trump faced a tough challenge.
Kai Trump’s Golf Debut
At just 18 years old, Trump entered the tournament with a sponsor’s exemption. She finished in last place after scoring 13-over-par 83 in her opening round. This performance marked the highest score of the tournament’s first day.
Round Highlights
- Back Nine Start: Trump began her round on the back nine, playing alongside Hinako Shibuno from Japan and Germany’s Olivia Cowan.
- Nervous Moments: She described feeling more nervous than anticipated but noted, “I thought I hit a lot of great shots out there.”
- Early Struggles: Trump bogeyed her first four holes but managed to secure a par at the par-five 14th.
- Turning Point: At the halfway mark, she had a score of six-over par 41.
- Back Nine Challenges: The second half of her round included additional challenges, leading to two double-bogeys and more bogeys.
Despite her last-place finish, Trump reflected positively on her experience. “I had a great time out there,” she said, acknowledging the nerves that accompanied her debut. “I felt a little out of order in the beginning but I kind of got it going afterward.”
Future Prospects
Trump’s professional debut comes shortly after she committed to playing golf for the University of Miami in the 2026-27 season. This highlights her growing career in the junior circuit.
Tournament Leaders
In the competition, South Korea’s Hae Ran Ryu captured the lead with an impressive opening score of six-under-par 64. Australian golfer Grace Kim was just one stroke behind, while American Jennifer Kupcho trailed by two shots. Among the contenders, world No. 6 Charley Hull was also in the mix, just a shot further back.
Kai Trump’s debut, despite its challenges, sets the stage for what could be an exciting golfing journey ahead.
