BELLEAIR, Florida. – Caitlin Clark has a goal when playing in an LPGA pro-am.

“I tried to practice as much as I could,” Clark said Tuesday. “I’m just an average golfer. I’m going to hit some good, I’m going to hit some bad. …I’m just going to try not to hit anyone standing outside the ropes. But it will be fun.

The WNBA Rookie of the Year star was invited to play Wednesday’s pro-am at Pelican Golf Club ahead of The Annika. The main sponsor is Gainbridge, which has an endorsement deal with Clark.

She participated in an LPGA women’s leadership summit with tournament host Sorenstam and former model and business executive Kathy Ireland.

Clark will play in the top nine with Nelly Korda, the No. 1 player in the women’s rankings who won the LPGA Player of the Year award. She plays in the back nine with Sorenstam, who retired in 2008 and is now moving into senior golf.

Clark said after the Indiana Fever were eliminated from the WNBA playoffs that she planned to play golf until it got too cold in Indianaadding with a smile: “Become a professional golfer.” »

Yes, she was joking.

“I tried to take as much time as possible to train, but there is only limited hope. Cross your fingers, pray,” she said Tuesday. “No, I practiced a little and just got the quote about becoming a professional golfer. Everyone thought I was serious. I wasn’t serious. I love him. I love being outside and being competitive with my friends.

“It’s a challenge and to come here, rub shoulders with the best and have a good time, that’s what I’m looking forward to.”

This will be his second pro-am, which often attracts athletes and artists. Clark competed in the John Deere Classic pro-am in July 2023 while still in Iowa.

___

AP Golf: https://apnews.com/hub/golf