LPGA defends handing Donald Trump's granddaughter Kai her debut amid fierce criticism from golf fans

The LPGA has defended Kai Trump's forthcoming pro debut, as it was announced she'd be competing at The ANNIKA driven by Gainbridge at Pelican next week.

Kai, 18, is committed to play collegiately at the University of Miami, but is ranked just  461st in the American Junior Golf Association Girls rankings, and shot 35 over par at the Arnold Palmer Invitational Junior event earlier this year.

So it was no surprise that her inclusion at The ANNIKA, which begins on November 13, sparked a wave of criticism from fans.

As Kai's sponsor invitation was announced, however, LPGA Chief Tour Business and Operations Officer Ricki Lasky defended the move.

'Sponsor invitations are an important way to spotlight emerging talent and bring new attention to our tournaments and the LPGA,' Lasky said in the LPGA's announcement late last month.

'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.'

Kai, who is the daughter of Donald Trump Jr. and his ex-wife Vanessa, boasts over six million followers across her social media platforms, where she regularly features President Trump and golf stars like Rory McIlroy.

Earlier this year, she finished in a tie for third place in a Srixon Medalist Tour event in Atlantis, Florida. 

And the director of the course where she will make her pro debut also defended her inclusion in the tournament.

'Kai Trump has a tremendous passion for the game and is expanding the sport to broader audiences,' Pelican Golf Club Director of Golf and COO Justin Sheehan said.

'She has a bright future at Miami, and we look forward to welcoming her and our entire tournament field to Pelican Golf Club in November.' 

For her part, Kai spoke about her excitement of competing at the pro level. 

'It has been a dream of mine to compete at the professional level and I would like to thank the Pelican Golf Club for the invitation,' she said on social media.

'I'm looking forward to teeing it up and competing with the best players in the world at one of the most premier venues on tour.

The field of The ANNIKA will include world No. 2 Nelly Korda, while WNBA superstar Caitlin Clark will compete in the pro-am event for the second year in a row.