Kai Trump Fails to Make Cut in LPGA Debut, Shows betterment on Second Day
PELICAN GOLF CLUB, FLORIDA – Kai Trump, the 18-year-old granddaughter of former US President Donald Trump, did not advance to the weekend rounds of the Annika tournament in Florida, missing the cut after finishing at 18 over par.Despite a five-over 75 in the second round, a marked improvement from her opening 83, Trump finished last in the 108-player field.
The amateur golfer, competing as a sponsor exemption, demonstrated progress from her debut, fueled by a calmer mindset. “For the first day I was definitely really nervous. I think the nerves just got to me,” trump said. “When I went out there today I felt very calm and peaceful to be honest with you. That’s why I played better.”
Trump’s second round included birdies on the third, seventh, 11th, and 12th holes, and she nearly aced the 140-yard third with an eight iron. Though, a triple-bogey seven on the par-four fifth proved costly. she navigated the challenging 18th hole with a par for the second consecutive day.
Despite the missed cut,Trump showcased impressive power off the tee,averaging 241 yards and finding 11 of 14 fairways,according to fellow competitor Charley Hull. “That’s really good, considering this is not just an easy LPGA event, this is problably one of the harder courses that we play on,” Hull commented.
Trump has committed to playing college golf at the University of Miami next year and is currently ranked 461st in the American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) rankings. Her mother, Vanessa, is dating 15-time major champion Tiger Woods.
The Annika tournament is led by Linn Grant and Grace Kim at five under par.World number two Nelly Korda is tied for sixth at six under, after carding a seven-under 63 on Friday.
