Caitlin Clark Makes a Comeback to the ANNIKA Pro-Am with Old Friends and Good Vibes It’s hardly surprising that Caitlin Clark is unable to slow down, even during her first real WNBA offseason. The legendary Iowa basketball player and Indiana Fever star is making a comeback to the ANNIKA Pro-Am at Pelican Golf Club in Belleair, Florida, trading in hardwood for fairways.
World-class golfers, celebrities, and athletes from other sports come together for the event, which is hosted by LPGA legend Annika Sorenstam. It’s a day that’s part competition, part camaraderie, and all about celebrating athletic excellence. It has become somewhat of a custom for Clark. Shortly after concluding her historic rookie season in the WNBA, which saw her garner national attention and win the WNBA Rookie of the Year award, she made her pro-am debut last November. On that outing, she was paired with two of the biggest names in the game: Nelly Korda, the former world No. 1 and 15-time LPGA Tour winner, and Sörenstam herself. 1.
Clark is returning for round two this year, both literally and figuratively, and she’s keeping the star-studded lineup the same. She will once more take the same course as Korda and Lauryn Nguyen, a former Northwestern standout who is participating through sponsor exemption. This trio combines youth, experience, and competitive fire in equal measure. Before the event, Clark told reporters, “I had such a blast last year.” Being around athletes who are at the pinnacle of their sport is just enjoyable. In addition to learning a lot, you get to enjoy the day.
A few familiar faces joining her on the course will only increase that feeling of enjoyment. Sophie Cunningham and Lexie Hull, two of Clark’s Fever teammates, are accompanying her as her famous guest caddies rather than as fellow golfers. Along the way, there will likely be a lot of inside jokes, laughter, and possibly some friendly wagers. In addition to Clark’s fiery spirit, Cunningham’s playful energy and Hull’s quiet competitiveness should provide the ideal balance. The star power of the other groups is equally strong. This year’s celebrity caddie for Korda is two-time Olympic gold medalist and American soccer legend Briana Scurry. To add a little speed to the mix, Nguyen will be accompanied by NASCAR driver Carson Hocevar. The ANNIKA Pro-Am’s distinct charm stems from this type of diverse, cross-sport event.
But it’s more than just a laid-back day out for Clark. She gets a rare respite from the demanding world of professional basketball thanks to occasions like these. It seems to come naturally to her to use the offseason to rest, re-establish connections, and have a little fun after a hectic rookie season that made her one of the most recognizable faces in sports. During a media appearance, Cunningham made a joke about how competitive she is in everything. “Therefore, don’t be shocked if she begins to line up putts as though they were game-winning free throws.”
It’s simple to understand why Clark appeals to both fans and other athletes. Her charisma, humility, and competitiveness go beyond basketball. She has the same level of joy and confidence whether she’s trying to read a challenging green or draining logo threes. Caitlin Clark reminds everyone that even future legends need time to relax, laugh, and enjoy the journey as she sets out in Florida once more. And what if she manages to outshine a few experts along the way? No one would be surprised by that either.
Golf may be the main event at the ANNIKA Pro-Am, but Caitlin Clark will continue to garner the most attention.
