Kai Trump, an 18-year-old high school senior, showcased significant improvement during the second round of the LPGA Annika event at Pelican Golf Club in Belleair, Florida, on March 15, 2024. Transitioning from “definitely really nervous” in her first round to “very calm and peaceful,” Trump finished the tournament with an 18-over par, ultimately missing the cut. Despite placing last among 108 competitors, her performance drew attention for her resilience and composure.
Trump, the granddaughter of former President Donald Trump, improved her score by eight strokes, recording a 75 in the second round. Her first round was challenging, featuring nine bogeys, two double bogeys, and just one birdie. In contrast, her second round included a brief moment under par, highlighted by a birdie on the par-3 third hole. While she faced setbacks with a bogey on the fourth and a triple bogey on the fifth, Trump rebounded well, birdieing three of the next six holes.
Reflecting on her triple bogey, Trump maintained a lighthearted perspective, stating, “Once it happens, you can’t go back in time and fix it. The best thing I could do is move on.” Her ability to laugh off the misstep resonated with her supporters, particularly her caddie, Allan Kournikova.
Personal Highlights and Shared Experiences
Trump nearly achieved her first hole-in-one on the par-3 12th hole, describing the moment as “a great shot.” She expressed pride in her effort, saying, “I did everything I could possibly have done for this tournament.” Trump plans to attend the University of Miami next year and is currently ranked No. 461 by the American Junior Golf Association.
The inclusion of Trump in the tournament has sparked discussions about privilege and opportunity. Dan Doyle Jr., owner of Pelican Golf Club, acknowledged that her invitation was more about generating public interest than showcasing talent alone. “The idea of the exemption, when you go into the history of exemptions, is to bring attention to an event,” Doyle stated. He emphasized that Trump’s participation has attracted viewers who typically do not follow women’s golf.
Tournament host Annika Sorenstam, a Hall of Famer, recognized the pressures Trump faces due to her visibility. “To be 18 years old and hear all the comments, she must be super tough on the inside,” Sorenstam remarked. She drew parallels to her own experiences, recalling her exemption to play in the Bank of America Colonial in 2003, which was met with controversy but ultimately brought attention to women’s sports.
Future Aspirations
As Trump concluded her week at the event, she reflected on the experience with a sense of gratitude. Despite the mixed results, she is focused on her future in golf, stating, “If you prepare right, the nerves can be a little softened.” With her strong performance and unique narrative, Kai Trump continues to carve her path in the world of golf, leaving a lasting impression on both fans and critics alike.
