Kai Trump Joins Miami Golf as 2025 Recruit/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Kai Trump, granddaughter of President Donald Trump, has officially signed with the University of Miami’s women’s golf team. The 17-year-old golfer is also making her LPGA debut this week, earning praise from golf legend Annika Sorenstam. Her signing brings added attention to an already competitive Hurricanes program.
Kai Trump + Miami Golf Quick Looks
- Kai Trump officially signs with University of Miami women’s golf
- Signing announced on first day of NCAA signing window
- Ceremony held near Mar-a-Lago in West Palm Beach
- Committed to Miami in August 2024
- Currently making LPGA debut at The Annika tournament
- Annika Sorenstam praises Trump’s golf and mental toughness
- Big driver; short game still in development
- Social media influencer with viral golf-related content
- Coach Olivencia: “She brings energy and competitiveness”
- Miami expects increased visibility, strong team culture
Deep Look: Kai Trump Joins Miami Hurricanes Golf, Debuts at LPGA Event
CORAL GABLES, Fla. — Kai Trump, the 17-year-old granddaughter of former U.S. President Donald Trump, is officially joining the University of Miami women’s golf team as part of the Hurricanes’ 2025 recruiting class. The program confirmed her signing on Wednesday, the first day of the NCAA Division I national signing period.
Though Kai completed her letter of intent last week in a ceremony near Mar-a-Lago, her grandfather’s Florida residence, the school could only make her commitment public once the NCAA’s signing window officially opened.
Kai, daughter of Donald Trump Jr., said she’s known for over a year that Miami was her top choice.
“I love the coaches. It’s close to home. Great school,” she said during a news conference this week. “My cousins went there as well, so I know people that have gone there. It’s a great university and I’m looking forward to playing for them.”
Immediate Spotlight on Miami Golf
Kai’s arrival brings not just a talented athlete to the Hurricanes’ program, but also an influx of public attention. With millions of views on her YouTube golf content, including behind-the-scenes election footage and Ryder Cup experiences with her grandfather, she’s already a high-profile figure both inside and outside the sport.
Miami head coach Janice Olivencia addressed the media buzz surrounding the signing.
“We view any potential exposure as positive for Miami golf,” said Olivencia. “Our current team is a very mature and intelligent group of women. So, we anticipate that we will handle all the attention with great composure and enthusiasm.”
Making LPGA Debut at ‘The Annika’
Coinciding with her official announcement, Kai is also making her LPGA debut at The Annika, a tournament held at Pelican Golf Club. She received a sponsor’s exemption for the event and impressed none other than tournament host and golf legend Annika Sorenstam during a practice round.
“To be 17 years old and hear all the comments, she must be super tough on the inside,” Sorenstam said. “She was really inquisitive. She asked a lot of good questions.”
Sorenstam also praised Kai’s powerful long game, calling her length off the tee impressive for a young player. Kai, candid about her game, acknowledged her short game as a current area of improvement.
Competitive Edge and Athletic Pedigree
Coach Olivencia described Kai as a multi-sport athlete with “tremendous energy and excitement.”
“Kai is very committed to her growth, both as a player and a person,” Olivencia said. “Her emphasis on development will continue to lead her to new heights.”
Kai said she often plays golf with her grandfather, and the two share a love for the game.
“We play a lot,” she said. “We have a great time out there.”
Balancing Fame and a Collegiate Golf Career
While her last name brings immediate recognition, the University of Miami is aiming to ensure that Kai’s college experience is as grounded and supportive as possible. Coach Olivencia emphasized the school’s strong resources, mentorship, and team culture.
“Our team is very welcoming. They trust in us to continue to invite players to the program that will contribute in their own way to raise the level of this team,” she said. “We’re fortunate at Miami to have a plethora of resources and great support systems.”
Kai will join a program that is continuing to grow in national prominence. With her talent, visibility, and competitive mindset, she is expected to make a meaningful impact—both on the course and in drawing attention to women’s collegiate golf.
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