Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark recently traded her basketball shoes for golf clubs, participating in The Annika Pro-Am tournament in Tampa, Florida. The event, which features top women golfers, saw Clark, a rookie sensation in the WNBA, join some of the sport’s best players on the course. Clad in a pink Nike hat and a white Nike shirt, Clark made her debut in the world of LPGA golf, and her presence did not go unnoticed. After completing her round, she was mobbed by fans, media, and autograph seekers eager to meet the rising star.
Fans were quick to express their admiration for Clark in the comments section, with many noting how inspiring it is to witness a female athlete like her amass such a strong following across different sports. One fan commented, “Grateful to live in an era to witness a female athlete inspire this amount of fandom.” Another shared their disappointment at not getting an autograph but acknowledged Clark’s busy schedule. There was also a lighthearted mention of the need for more security, given the level of attention she attracted on the course.
During the event, Clark was paired with world No. 1 golfer Nelly Korda for the front nine and later teamed up with legendary golfer Annika Sörenstam for the back nine. It was clear that Clark was both excited and appreciative of the opportunity. Reflecting on her experience, she admitted, “Golf is hard,” acknowledging the skill and precision required to excel in the sport. Despite being an amateur, Clark held her own and seemed to enjoy the day, expressing how fortunate she felt to be part of such a special event.
The Annika Pro-Am is known for its large purse, set at $3.25 million, and attracts some of the best players in the game. Annika Sörenstam, a Hall-of-Famer herself, had previously shared her enthusiasm about meeting Clark. The event allowed Clark to step out of her usual basketball setting and experience the competitive world of professional golf, offering a refreshing change of pace and an opportunity to connect with elite athletes in a different sport.
Caitlin Clark’s appearance at The Annika Pro-Am exemplifies her wide-ranging talents and ability to inspire across different fields. While her focus remains on her basketball career, it’s clear that she can hold her own in other sports, too. Fans continue to support her not only for her accomplishments on the court but for the way she engages with fans and embraces new challenges. Whether it’s basketball or golf, Caitlin Clark’s influence continues to grow, and she is quickly becoming a symbol of versatility and excellence in female sports.
