Grandaughter Trump On The Grass! Kai Trump Part Of Miami Golf Recruiting Circuit

Kai Trump, granddaughter of USA President Donald Trump, knew over a year ago that she wanted to attend the University of Miami and play golf for the Hurricanes and has remained steadfast in her decision.

Miami announced on Wednesday that Kai Trump is part of its women’s golf signing class, coinciding with the first day of the NCAA Division I signing window for most sports. She actually completed the letter of intent last week during a ceremony at her high school, located close to her grandfather’s Mar-a-Lago estate in West Palm Beach. However, Miami couldn’t acknowledge her signing or commitment until now due to NCAA rules regarding signing dates.

Her prospects in college are uncertain, but one thing is clear: Miami golf is about to receive a significant boost in attention.

“We view any potential exposure as positive for Miami golf,” Hurricanes coach Janice Olivencia said. “Our current team is composed of very mature and intelligent women. We expect to handle all the attention with great composure and enthusiasm.”

Kai Trump, daughter of Donald Trump Jr., committed to Miami in August 2024. She makes her LPGA debut this week in The Annika at Pelican Golf Club, explaining in a news conference why Miami was her choice.

“I love the coaches. It’s close to home. Great school,” Kai Trump said. “I love the people there. My cousins went there as well, so I know people who have attended. It’s a great university, and I’m looking forward to playing for them.”

She’s a social media influencer; her behind-the-scenes video from election night has garnered over 5.1 million views on YouTube, and her video from attending the Ryder Cup with her grandfather has been viewed about 2 million times. She also frequently plays golf with her grandfather, who is known for his love of the game.

“We play a lot,” Kai Trump said. “We have a great time out there.”

Her LPGA debut this week is thanks to a sponsor’s exemption. Tournament host and Hall of Famer Annika Sorenstam played with Kai Trump earlier this week and was impressed by the 17-year-old’s inquisitive nature.

“I just don’t know how she does it, honestly,” Sorenstam said. “To be 17 years old and hear all the comments, she must be super tough inside. We can all relate to what it’s like to receive criticism, but she gets it a thousand times over.”

Kai Trump is candid about her strengths and weaknesses in golf. She is a strong hitter, and even Sorenstam was impressed with her distance off the tee, but her short game—scoring around the green—is still developing.

“Kai will bring tremendous energy and excitement to Miami,” Olivencia said. “She’s a multi-sport athlete with a strong competitive spirit and a genuine love for golf. Kai is dedicated to her growth, both as a player and a person. Her focus on development will continue to lead her to new heights.”

The university hasn’t disclosed much about the impact of having the president’s granddaughter on campus, but the Hurricanes hope Kai Trump’s college experience will be as normal as possible.

“Our team is very welcoming,” Olivencia said. “They trust us to continue inviting players to the program who will contribute in their own ways to elevate the team. Additionally, we’re fortunate at Miami to have numerous resources and strong support systems. This class will have access to the same resources our current student-athletes enjoy from the moment they arrive on campus.”

(With Inputs From Agencies)