The Japan Times - Trump's granddaughter set to play in LPGA event

"My dream has been to compete with the best in the world on the LPGA Tour," Kai Trump said in a statement posted on the LPGA's website. "This event will be an incredible experience.

"I look forward (to) meeting and competing against so many of my heroes and mentors in golf as I make my LPGA Tour debut."

The 18-year-old high school senior, the eldest child of Donald Trump Jr., is ranked 461st in the American Junior Golf Assciation rankings and has commited to play collegiate golf at the University of Miami.

She also has a strong social media presence, with millions of followers across multiple platforms.

The $3.25 million The ANNIKA at Pelican in Belleair, Florida, is the penultimate event of the LPGA season, which will conclude with the Tour Championship November 20-23 in Naples, Florida.

It traditionally attracts a strong field and was won in 2024 by American star Nelly Korda.

Other sponsor invitations have gone to Wake Forest University senior Anne-Sterre den Dunnen of the Netherlands and Northwestern University standout 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."

K.Inoue--JT