Caitlin Clark is taking a break from basketball—or at least, temporarily. After an exhausting and historic rookie season in the WNBA, Clark, known for her intense focus on the court, hinted at a different kind of competition for her offseason: golf. When reporters asked her about her post-season plans, she joked, “Maybe play some golf. I think that’s what I’m gonna do until it gets too cold in Indiana. So now I got that. I’ll become a professional golfer.”
At the time, her comment was taken as a playful remark from someone who had endured an intense stretch of basketball over the last year. But as it turns out, Clark wasn’t entirely joking. She is now set to make good on her promise by entering an LPGA Tour Pro-Am event on November 13, surprising many who thought her golf ambitions were merely in jest.
Before she hits the golf course, Clark is also scheduled to speak at the Women’s Leadership Summit at Pelican Golf Club, an event that coincides with the tournament. Her participation in the summit reflects her growing influence as a role model both in and outside of sports.
For the pro-am tournament, Clark will team up with none other than women’s golf legend Annika Sorenstam, one of the greatest golfers in LPGA history. The opportunity to share the green with Sorenstam is something Clark is looking forward to with great excitement.
“I love golf, so the opportunity to play in the pro-am for a tournament with a legend like Annika Sorenstam’s name on it is so exciting,” Clark said in a statement. “I’m looking forward to seeing all the LPGA players on the driving range, being part of the Women’s Leadership Summit, and, of course, teeing it up in the pro-am with Annika.”
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Though golf may seem like a fun diversion for the rising basketball star, Clark’s competitive spirit will undoubtedly shine through. She has already proven her ability to excel under pressure during her rookie WNBA season, where she made an immediate impact on the court. Despite a slow start, Clark finished her first year in the league on a high note, earning near-unanimous Rookie of the Year honors—falling just one vote short of a perfect tally.
Clark’s remarkable rookie campaign didn’t go unnoticed by the sports world, drawing praise from iconic athletes like LeBron James. James, who faced his own set of challenges when he entered the NBA as a teenager, expressed admiration for Clark’s ability to handle the pressure and scrutiny that comes with being a rising star.
“I have a great deal of respect for Caitlin Clark, because I know exactly what it means to be drafted, be the face of a franchise, and also get the scrutiny from a lot of people that don’t believe you’re ready for the next jump,” James said. “And I remember that when I came into the league at eighteen years old how many people doubted me and hoped and prayed that I’d fail.”
Much like James, Clark’s immense popularity and talent have the potential to elevate her league and inspire a new generation of athletes. Her willingness to branch out into different areas, like golf, showcases her versatility and appeal beyond just basketball.
As Clark gears up for her LPGA Pro-Am debut, fans will undoubtedly be watching to see how she fares on the golf course. Whether she’s sinking three-pointers or lining up putts, Clark’s competitive nature will ensure that she approaches the event with the same drive and determination that has made her a household name in the sports world.
While basketball may remain her primary focus, her venture into golf is just another example of Clark’s desire to challenge herself and grow as an athlete.
As the Saints look to turn their season around, they’ll need to find ways to get Olave back on track and involved more in their game plan. Fans and family alike are hopeful that next week will see the star receiver back to his usual self.
