They say excellence has a unique taste—one that only the truly exceptional can savor. In the world of golf, this refined palate for greatness has been TaylorMade’s signature since 1979, when Gary Adams’s revolutionary stainless steel metalwood driver first changed the game forever. From that moment, the brand’s story became intertwined with golf’s greatest legends.

When Tiger Woods chose the sports equipment company in 2017, it wasn’t just another deal—it evolved into a partnership that led to the creation of the Sun Day Red brand in 2024. When Rory McIlroy signed his landmark deal, it wasn’t just about equipment—it was about shaping golf’s future. Even as the sport evolved, TaylorMade’s eye for exceptional talent remained unwavering, bringing stars like Scottie Scheffler, Nelly Korda, and Charley Hull into their fold.

And now, a new rising star joins this league of golf’s elite, ready to make her mark in the world of golf. “What’s up guys? This is Kai Trump. And I’m officially partnering up with Team TaylorMade,” announced Donald Trump’s granddaughter in an Instagram Reel dated February 14, marking another historic chapter in TaylorMade’s legacy of prestigious partnerships. Captioned, “I’m proud to officially be joining team TaylorMade! This has been a dream of mine since I was a little kid and I can’t wait for the journey ahead. Excited to see what we can accomplish together in the future!” the video showed the budding golfer showing off her skills.

The significance runs deep. At just 17, the University of Miami committ’s signing with TaylorMade marks another milestone in her already impressive career trajectory. The high school golf sensation, who recently inked a deal with Leaf Trading Cards in January 2025, brings with her a NIL valuation of $1.2 million—ranking No. 1 in women’s high school golf. Her social media influence, with over 5 million followers across platforms, represents a new era in golf where athletic excellence meets digital presence.

Having said that, it’s understandable why the brand would rope in the amateur golfer. Having delved into the sport at the young age of four, she’s turned heads throughout—firstly by becoming the varsity golf team captain in her second year and garnering multiple regional and conference championships, at The Benjamin School in Palm Beach, Florida. Additionally, the youngster also won the 2022 Women’s Club Championship and the 2024 Ladies Club Championship at Trump International Palm Beach.

Safe to say that this strategic alliance between a historic golf brand and one of the sport’s most promising young talents who’s already ranking No. 81 in overall NIL rankings, is going to pay the latter in dividends.

Golf elite embrace Kai Trump as TaylorMade’s newest star

The announcement drew immediate reaction from Charley Hull, one of TaylorMade’s most prominent LPGA ambassadors. Hull, who recently dominated the Aramco Team Series in Riyadh with her Qi10 LS driver, showed her support with a simple but powerful “🙌”. Her endorsement carries special weight, as she’s been instrumental in promoting TaylorMade’s Qi10 series through social media and has consistently showcased the brand’s innovation in women’s golf.

Grant Horvat, a rising star in TaylorMade’s content creation team, called it a “Smart move!” His commentary is particularly relevant given his role in TaylorMade’s digital presence and his position as one of Team TaylorMade’s key personalities alongside Chris “Trottie” Trott and Riggs. Horvat’s connection to the brand goes beyond traditional athletic endorsement, representing TaylorMade’s successful venture into golf lifestyle and social media engagement.

The welcome wagon extended further into the golf community, with LPGA star Maria Fassi warmly commenting, “Welcome to the family 🤍™️.” Up-and-coming talents like Bella Simões and Bento Assis added their voices to the chorus of support, with Simões enthusiastically posting, “Welcome to the team 🚀🚀🚀🚀❤️.” Fellow golfer Henry Grillo’s “Let’s go Kai!” rounded out the positive reception from the golf community.

For TaylorMade, this signing symbolizes their unwavering commitment to blending legacy with future potential. As they enter their 46th year, having Kai Trump join the ranks of Woods, McIlroy, and other legends suggests that TaylorMade’s taste for excellence remains as refined as ever, and that Trump is on the right path. 

What are your thoughts on this latest addition to Team TaylorMade? Let us know in the comments section below!