Kai Trump, 19, has spoken about the influence of her mother Vanessa Trump's boyfriend, golfer Tiger Woods, describing him as a significant inspiration. Trump made these remarks while attending the 2026 ESPY Awards in New York City, an annual event honoring athletic achievements.
When asked about her inspirations, Kai told Us Weekly, "Probably Tiger [Woods], he's inspired me a lot, just [to] be a better person, a better golfer, and stuff like that." She added that Woods has offered her advice on her golf game, encouraging her to "keep being you and live life." Kai is slated to join the University of Miami's women's golf team this fall.
Vanessa Trump and Tiger Woods have been publicly dating for over a year, with their relationship first becoming public in March 2025. Woods was previously married to Donald Trump Jr. from 2005 to 2018, and they share five children: Kai, Donald III, Tristan, Spencer, and Chloe.
Tiger Woods has a long-standing connection with Kai's grandfather, President Donald Trump, who awarded Woods the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2019. Reports suggest Woods and Vanessa Trump first met through events at The Benjamin School in Florida, where their children were students.
In recent months, both Woods and Vanessa Trump have faced personal challenges. Woods was arrested for driving under the influence in March, following a single-car accident near his Jupiter Island home. He subsequently entered a rehabilitation program for medication management and returned to the U.S. in June. His next court hearing is scheduled for August 4.
In May, Vanessa Trump announced her diagnosis with breast cancer, sharing that she had undergone a procedure and was working with her medical team on a treatment plan. She expressed gratitude for her doctors and asked for privacy during her recovery. Earlier this week, Kai Trump provided an update on her mother's health, telling Fox & Friends that while radiation has taken a toll, Vanessa is "doing better" and is a "fighter."