The LPGA Tour is facing criticism for its Kai Trump announcement on Tuesday morning, October 28.
Kai Trump, the 18-year-old granddaughter of President Donald J. Trump, is set to make her LPGA Tour debut next month. The University of Miami golf commit, who has millions of followers across social media, will be participating in the ANNIKA driven by Gainbridge at Pelican, taking place Nov. 10-16 at Pelican Golf Club in Belleair, Fla. Kai Trump will be playing as a sponsor’s exemption.
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Pelican Golf Club selected Trump as the tournament’s third sponsor invitation, as she joins Wake Forest Senior Anne-Sterre den Dunnen and Northwestern All-American Lauryn Nguyen.
“Sponsor invitations are an important way to spotlight emerging talent and bring new attention to our tournaments and the LPGA,” said Ricki Lasky, LPGA Chief Tour Business and Operations Officer. “Kai’s broad following and reach are helping introduce golf to new audiences, especially among younger fans. We’re excited to see her take this next step in her journey, and we’re proud to work closely with our partners in Tampa Bay whose continued commitment to advancing the women’s game helps elevate the LPGA and expand its visibility.”
Kai Trump speaking.Getty Images.
Kai Trump, who has 2.5 million followers on Instagram, is excited for the opportunity next month.
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“My dream has been to compete with the best in the world on the LPGA Tour, and I am thrilled to be able to compete at The ANNIKA driven by Gainbridge at Pelican in November,” said Trump. “This event will be an incredible experience. I look forward meeting and competing against so many of my heroes and mentors in golf as I make my LPGA Tour debut.”
The LPGA Tour is facing criticism from some
While sponsor’s exemptions are nothing new in the world of golf, some are unhappy with the LPGA Tour, for giving one to President Trump’s granddaughter.
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“Is nothing sacred anymore? This is pathetic,” one fan wrote.
“Generation after generation of grifting,” one fan added.
“This grifter has no business being here. Stop rewarding this family,” one fan added.
“Will she cheat like her grandpa?” another fan wondered.
The LPGA Tour, though, is standing by its decision. Kai Trump has a big following and will bring a lot of eyeballs to the event.
“Kai Trump has a tremendous passion for the game and is expanding the sport to broader audiences,” said Justin Sheehan, Director of Golf and COO, Pelican Golf Club. “She has a bright future at Miami, and we look forward to welcoming her and our entire tournament field to Pelican Golf Club in November.”
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This story was originally reported by The Spun on Oct 28, 2025, where it first appeared in the Golf section. Add The Spun as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
