When WNBA sensation Caitlin Clark isn’t breaking records or leaving defenders in a daze on the court, she’s apparently attempting to conquer a different green — the golf course! And just like her jaw-dropping pull-up threes, her recent foray into the world of golf has created its own Clark-mania at the ANNIKA driven by Gainbridge at Pelican tournament in Belleair, Florida.
In a mashup of basketball charisma and fairway finesse (or lack thereof), Caitlin partnered up with world golf phenom Nelly Korda for the front nine and the tournament’s host and LPGA legend, Annika Sorenstam, for the back nine. Watching Clark tee up was nothing short of hilarious — fans, in fact, couldn’t get enough.
Sports photographer Bri Lewerke captured every moment of Clark’s golf escapade on X (formerly Twitter), with each shot attracting a new wave of awestruck fans. Forget the hushed reverence typical of golf events; this crowd erupted in full-blown roars, eager to witness Clark’s every slice, hook, and prayer for her ball to land anywhere near the fairway.
Caitlin Clark Takes Golf Goals Lightly — No Injuries, Please!
Clark’s primary goal in golf? Not accidentally turning fans into human targets. “I’m strong, and I can hit it,” she joked. “It just usually doesn’t go straight.” The former college basketball powerhouse confessed to ESPN her rather simple objective: “I just don’t want to hit anyone with a golf ball.” Hey, priorities matter, especially when you’re wielding the equivalent of a weapon in sports terms.
Clark also cleared up any rumors about her “professional” golf aspirations. Despite a flood of playful speculation on social media, she said, “Everyone thought I was serious, but no way. I love it, though. I love being outside, and I enjoy making it competitive with my friends.” It’s safe to say the LPGA can breathe a sigh of relief…for now.
Autographs, Laughs, and “Sharpshooter” Swings
Fans could hardly contain their excitement as Clark not only took her swings but also mingled with them, signing autographs and sharing laughs as she made her way down the course. Each swing, intentional or not, seemed to mirror the same electric unpredictability she’s famous for on the court.
Unlike most pro-am events, where crowds are often sparse, Clark’s presence turned the typically quiet greens into a frenzy of excitement. It seemed like every fan within 50 miles had grabbed their chance to see the rookie sensation trade her sneakers for spikes.
From Hoops to Holes: Caitlin’s Favorite Golfer and WNBA Offseason Fun
Clark shared that her love for golf started young, playing with her dad, and named PGA Tour star Rory McIlroy as her personal golfing idol. She’s chosen to spend her offseason diving into golf instead of heading overseas to play, despite an offer to join the Unrivaled 3×3 league, where she could’ve teamed up with fellow WNBA star Angel Reese.
Clark’s decision is another fresh reminder of her uniqueness. Rather than follow the usual offseason path of overseas play, she’s decided to swing her way through golf courses, much to the delight (and occasional fright) of her fans.
In her WNBA rookie season, Clark averaged 19.2 points, led the league with 8.4 assists per game, and grabbed 5.7 rebounds. Now, while her golf stats may not reach the same heights, it’s clear Clark’s charisma and competitiveness don’t miss, whether it’s at the free-throw line or the fairway.
The ANNIKA driven by Gainbridge at Pelican event, featuring Clark and her star-studded team-ups, will run through Sunday — giving fans and a few brave golf balls several more days to experience the “Caitlin Clark effect” firsthand.
