Kai Trump, the 18-year-old granddaughter of former President Donald Trump, is making waves on and off the golf course this fall. With a social media following that numbers in the millions and a varsity golf record that’s the envy of her peers, Kai’s journey is a blend of athletic prowess, digital influence, and family legacy. The opening session of the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black in Farmingdale, New York, provided the latest stage for her growing profile, as she accompanied her grandfather to the prestigious event on September 26.
Arriving alongside Donald Trump—who sported his signature spiky golf shoes—Kai cut a confident figure in her own branded “KT” sweatshirt. This appearance marked the former president’s first time attending a professional golf event as a spectator since LIV Golf’s 2023 stop at his Bedminster, New Jersey course. But for Kai, it was another opportunity to showcase her dual roles as a rising athlete and a social media influencer.
Born in New York City on May 12, 2007, Kai Madison Trump is the oldest of Donald Trump’s ten grandchildren. Her parents, Donald Trump Jr. and Vanessa Trump, were married from 2005 to 2018. Vanessa, herself a familiar face in the public eye, is now dating golf legend Tiger Woods—adding yet another layer of golf royalty to Kai’s story. Kai’s siblings include Donald “Donnie” Trump III, Tristan Trump, Spencer Trump, and Chloe Trump, all part of a family tree that’s never far from the headlines.
Kai’s journey in golf began early, but her recent achievements have set her apart from the average high school player. She competes for the Benjamin School in Florida, one of the state’s top varsity golf programs. As of September 24, 2025, the Benjamin girls’ golf team was ranked No. 1 in Palm Beach County, No. 5 statewide, and No. 21 nationally—a testament to the depth and talent of the squad.
While Kai hasn’t notched a varsity tournament win this season, her consistency is remarkable. She’s finished in the top five in every event she’s entered, a streak that speaks to her steady nerves and competitive edge. In her latest outings, she tied for second against Pine School with a score of 39 on September 11, placed fourth against Jensen Beach with a 40 on September 4, tied for third against Dwyer with a 36 on September 2, finished fourth against King’s Academy with a 39 on August 28, and tied for second against St. Edward’s with a 36 on August 26. These results underscore her status as one of Florida’s most reliable young golfers.
“Kai’s game is solid and she’s a leader on and off the course,” said Eric J. Wallace, deputy sports editor for The Palm Beach Post, who has tracked her progress throughout the season. “She hasn’t finished outside the top five all year, which is impressive in any varsity sport, let alone in Florida girls’ golf.”
Kai’s impact extends far beyond the fairways of Palm Beach County. On social media, she’s a bona fide influencer, boasting a six-million-strong following across TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. Her Instagram handle, @kaitrumpgolfer, is a nod to her passion, and her content regularly features swing breakdowns, course vlogs, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into her training regimen. She’s also collaborated with popular golf YouTuber Grant Horvat, going head-to-head in a friendly match at Trump National Golf Club in Jupiter, Florida—a video that drew praise from both her fans and the broader golf community.
Her digital presence isn’t just about self-promotion; it’s a vehicle for brand partnerships and entrepreneurial ventures. In July 2025, reports surfaced that Kai’s Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) deals had reached a staggering $1.2 million, thanks to collaborations with Accelerator Active Energy, Leaf Trading Cards, and TaylorMade Golf. These partnerships place her among the most marketable young athletes in the country, a testament to both her on-course talent and off-course charisma.
That entrepreneurial spirit was on full display at the Ryder Cup, where Kai helped launch a new line of Trump-branded merchandise. The collection, featuring sweatshirts emblazoned with her name or initials, debuted at a price point of $130 each. Kai modeled the “KT” crewneck outside the White House, further cementing her status as both a fashion and sports influencer. The event drew significant attention, with many Trump supporters and golf fans alike praising her sense of style and business acumen.
Kai’s athletic ambitions are equally impressive. She’s committed to playing collegiate golf at the University of Miami, with plans to join the Hurricanes in the fall of 2026. She signed a verbal commitment in August 2024, and her steady rise through the junior and high school ranks suggests she’ll be a force to reckon with at the NCAA level. “I’m excited for the next chapter,” Kai shared in a recent post, “and grateful for the support from my family, coaches, and fans.”
Her training regimen is no less rigorous than her tournament schedule. Social media posts show Kai working with a personal trainer, focusing on strength and conditioning to complement her technical skills. These sessions, often shared with her followers, reveal the dedication required to compete at the highest levels of junior golf.
Family remains at the heart of Kai’s story. She’s often seen traveling with her grandfather, whether it’s to high-profile tournaments like the Ryder Cup or promotional events for the Trump brand. Her relationship with her parents and siblings is a frequent topic on her platforms, offering fans a window into the dynamics of one of America’s most talked-about families.
Despite her busy schedule, Kai continues to balance school, sports, and social media with a poise that belies her age. As she wraps up another successful high school golf season and looks ahead to college, the question on everyone’s mind is: how far can she go? With her combination of skill, drive, and media savvy, the sky’s the limit.
As the Ryder Cup action continues at Bethpage Black, all eyes remain on Kai Trump—not just as a member of the Trump dynasty, but as a young athlete forging her own identity in the world of golf. Whether she’s teeing it up for the Benjamin School, launching a new merch line, or preparing for college competition, one thing’s for sure: Kai Trump is a name to watch in American sports.