Kai Trump’s LPGA Debut: The Annika Tournament Highlights

Kai Trump’s LPGA Debut: The Annika Tournament Highlights

Get ready for a golf showdown that’s as much about talent as it is about headlines. Kai Trump, the 18-year-old granddaughter of former President Donald Trump, is making her LPGA debut this week at the Anukica driven by Gainbridge at Pelican. But here’s where it gets controversial. She’s here on a sponsor exemption, sparking debates about merit versus opportunity. Is this a fair chance for a rising amateur or a case of privilege in play? Let’s dive in and find out. The LPGA’s second to last event of the 2025 season has kicked off with a bang, bringing together some of the biggest names in women’s golf. Stars like Nelly Corda, Charlie Hull, and Lexi Thompson are vying for the trophy and momentum heading into next week’s CME Group Tour Championship. Yet, it’s Kai Trump who’s stealing the spotlight, not just for her family name, but for her bold step into professional golf. And this is the part most people miss. She’s not just here to make up the numbers. She’s here to compete. Follow along as we bring you live updates from the Anukica where every swing counts and every score matters. Check out the tea times and keep an eye on the leaderboard to see how the drama unfolds. Tea times https/sportsdata.usa.com/golf/lpa/leerboard0008165/ usaday.com/golf/lpa/leerboard0008165/t-times https colon/sportsdata.usaatday.com/golf/lpa/leerboard0008165/t-times USA.com/golf/LPGA/leerboard0008165/T-times liveerboard https colon/sportsdata.usaatday.com/golf/lpga/leerboard0008165 https/sportsdata.usatday.com/golf USA.com/golf/LPGA/leerboard0008165. Kai’s debut hasn’t been without its challenges. Starting on the back nine, she hit the fairway on her first T-shot at the par 410th hole. A solid beginning, however, she quickly faced a rough patch with four straight bogeies, dropping her to four over and tied for 99th by 1:50 p.m. Eastern time. But she showed resilience making her first par of the day at the par fiveth hole. Though another bogey at number six left her at five over and tied for 98th. It’s a steep learning curve, but every pro has to start somewhere. Meanwhile, other players are setting the course ablaze. Sweden’s Meline Sagstrom went on a birdie binge, carding five consecutive birdies on holes 14 to 18 to finish her first nine with an impressive 30, landing her in solo second by 2:00 p.m. Eastern time. And Haron Ryu, she fired a stunning six under 64 on Thursday morning, taking a commanding threeshot lead early in the day. Ryu, seeking her fourth LPGA victory is one to watch as she sits comfortably ahead of a six-way tie for second, including Mouse Seago and Leona Maguire. But let’s not forget the human side of the game. Charlie Hull, battling illness, withdrew from the prom portion on Wednesday, but showed up for the opening round, sitting at one under through seven holes by 1:45 p.m. Eastern time. And Nelly Corda, after a fiveweek hiatus to stay healthy, is back on the course. Despite a winless season so far, a stark contrast to her seven victories last year, Pelican has always been her happy place with three wins already under her belt. Could this be her turnaround moment? As Kai Trump navigates her LPGA debut, the question lingers. Can she rise above the noise and prove her place among the pros? Or will the pressure of her family name weigh her down? One thing’s for sure. This tournament is about more than just golf. It’s about ambition, opportunity, and the grit it takes to compete at the highest level. What’s your take? Is Kai Trump’s sponsor exemption fair, or does it raise questions about equality in sports? Share your thoughts in the comments. Let’s keep the conversation

Join us as we witness the highly anticipated LPGA debut of Kai Trump, granddaughter of former President Donald Trump, at The Annika tournament. With a star-studded field including Nelly Korda, Charley Hull, and Lexi Thompson, this event promises to be thrilling!
The 18-year-old amateur golfer starts her journey with a sponsor exemption, teeing off at the Pelican Golf Course. Despite a slow start with four straight bogeys, Kai’s round included a memorable par at the challenging par-5 fifth hole.
Meanwhile, Nelly Korda returns to the LPGA after a five-week break, aiming to reclaim her World No. 1 status. Charley Hull, battling illness, still manages to impress with a solid start.
Don’t miss out on the action! Stay tuned for updates, highlights, and an inside look at this prestigious women’s golf tournament.