Tiger Woods has become more than a celebrated golfer in Kai Trump’s life. As the 19-year-old prepares to begin her collegiate golf career, she says the golf legend has continued to offer advice that has stayed with her while she also shared encouraging news about her mother, Vanessa Trump, during her recent public appearances.
Kai revealed that Woods’ message to her has been simple but meaningful: “Be yourself, trust the process.”
Speaking exclusively to Page Six at the 2026 ESPY Awards in New York City on July 15, Kai reflected on the guidance she has received from Woods as she gets ready to attend the University of Miami this fall, where she will compete in Division I golf.
The advice is not new. Before making her LPGA debut at The Annika tournament in Florida in November 2025, Kai said Woods encouraged her to approach the opportunity with confidence, telling her to enjoy the experience and accept whatever the outcome might be, according to Fox News Digital.
Kai previously praised Woods as “the best golfer in the entire world, and even better person,” while People reported in April 2026 that he had become fully integrated into the family and had developed a particularly close bond with her.
A family united during an important time
Alongside Woods’ mentorship, Kai also spoke about the support surrounding her family as Vanessa Trump continues treatment following her breast cancer diagnosis.
Offering a positive update, Kai told Page Six that her mother was “doing good” and “doing better.”
The encouraging remarks came after Vanessa announced her diagnosis in May and later revealed that she had undergone surgery before beginning the second stage of her treatment.
According to Page Six, Woods and Vanessa began dating in early 2025, and their relationship has continued to grow throughout her treatment.
A source quoted by Page Six said Woods has remained focused on supporting Vanessa, adding that he is proud of the strength she has shown and believes she will get through the difficult period ahead. The source also said he is simply trying to help her in every way he can.
Looking ahead on and off the golf course
As Kai prepares for the next stage of her athletic career, she continues to receive encouragement from both Woods and her grandfather, President Donald Trump.
Kai said her grandfather’s advice has been to enjoy every moment, even when the journey becomes difficult, while Woods has encouraged her to stay true to herself and trust the path ahead.
With collegiate golf about to begin and her mother continuing to recover, Kai’s latest public appearances highlighted both the guidance she has received from Tiger Woods and the optimism surrounding Vanessa Trump’s progress.
Vanessa shares five children with her former husband, Donald Trump Jr., including Kai, Donald III, Tristan, Spencer and Chloe.
Kai also said Vanessa had been smiling in recent weeks, including during a shopping trip together in West Palm Beach, Florida. At the ESPY Awards, she appeared relaxed and optimistic as she balanced excitement about her upcoming college career with encouraging news about her mother’s recovery.
