He often surprises her with candy and soda when her parents aren’t paying attention.
And on the golf course, he’s all about friendly competition and fun.
Now, Kai Trump shares insight into her special relationship with her grandfather Donald – and what she reveals might surprise you.
Donald Trump’s large family is known for its close connections and vibrant personalities. Among them is his 17-year-old granddaughter, Kai Trump, who has recently attracted public interest.
Kai was quick to congratulate her grandfather when he pursued another run for the White House – and their bond goes beyond typical family support.
While Kai has mostly stayed out of the public eye, her relationship with Donald Trump is clearly filled with affection and respect.
So who is Kai Trump, and what’s it like being the granddaughter of one of America’s most well-known figures?
Kai Trump: A true family member
Kai Madison Trump is the eldest grandchild of Donald Trump’s ten grandchildren, and the first child of Donald Trump Jr. and his former wife, Vanessa.
Born on May 12, 2007, in New York, she was named after her maternal grandfather, Kai Ewans, a Danish jazz musician.
The story goes that Vanessa went into labor early at a charity event, and Kai arrived two weeks ahead of schedule – a fitting start for a Trump!
She weighed 6 pounds, 14 ounces at birth.
Donald Trump Jr. expressed joy at her arrival, telling People magazine, “Everyone’s great.”
Donald Trump himself warmed up to the idea of becoming a grandfather, saying, “It feels very nice,” in an interview with the New York Post.
Growing up in New York, Kai and her uncle Barron Trump, only 14 months apart, spent plenty of time together, making quite the Trump duo.
Though born in New York, Kai now lives in Jupiter, Florida with her mother.
Low profile early years
Kai kept a relatively low profile during her early years. One of her first public appearances was at the age of six in 2014, when she attended a charity event at the Mar-a-Lago Club, capturing candid moments on camera.
During Donald Trump’s 2016 campaign, Kai appeared occasionally in official family photos, though the family maintained a mostly low-key presence in the spotlight.
Political expert Redd Galen commented that Trump’s family might not have anticipated the full intensity of a presidential campaign.
Speaking out in 2024
Kai made a more notable public impression in 2024, speaking at the Republican National Convention on July 17.
On the convention’s third day, Kai shared her personal view of her grandfather with the nation.
“The media often portrays my grandpa differently than who he really is. I know him as caring and loving. He truly wants the best for this country and works hard every day to make America great again,” she said.
In her first public speech, Kai also revealed that her grandfather is “just a normal grandpa” who treats his grandchildren kindly.
“He gives us candy and soda when our parents aren’t looking,” she shared.
Kai added that her grandfather takes pride in their achievements. “When I made the high honor roll, he printed it out to show his friends how proud he was,” she recalled.
Despite her calm delivery, Kai admitted feeling nervous, noting in an interview that the crowd was larger than she expected.
A special moment together
Donald and Kai share a deep bond, marked by many meaningful moments.
One of the most emotional was at the RNC, shortly after her grandfather was injured. It was the first time Kai had seen him since, making it a touching reunion.
“It was really special for both of us,” Kai said. “We both got a little teary-eyed. I’ll never forget that.”
Shared passion for golf
Kai’s love for golf is evident and growing.
After moving to South Florida at 13, she enrolled at The Benjamin School in North Palm Beach, known for its strong golf program and famous alumni like Jack Nicklaus and Greg Norman.
Earlier this year, Kai won the ladies’ club championship at Trump National Golf Club in West Palm Beach, showcasing her skill and dedication.
“Golf has always been a big part of my life and is my biggest passion. I aim to be a leader both on and off the course,” her SportsRecruits biography states.
University of Miami commitment
Kai recently announced her commitment to join the University of Miami’s women’s golf team starting in fall 2024.
“I am beyond excited to share this news,” Kai wrote on Instagram. “Thanks to my mom, Vanessa, and dad, Don, for their support. Also, thanks to my amazing team.”
She also expressed gratitude to her grandfather for access to excellent golf courses and his support.
Friendly competition with grandpa
Kai frequently spends time golfing with Donald Trump, sharing a competitive but fun relationship.
In a July interview, she described their matches as “stiff competition,” joking that her grandfather doesn’t go easy on her.
“He always gives me a run for my money,” she said. “It’s pretty close.”
Staying grounded
Despite growing up in the public eye, Kai remains down-to-earth.
In a video interview, her calm and genuine personality stood out, impressing viewers who noted her polite and mature demeanor.
“It’s never really changed who I am. I’m still very grounded; it’s all I’ve known my whole life,” she said.
Focusing on golf, not politics
Although her family is well known in politics, Kai prefers to keep a low profile.
“I fit in with everyone else. People wouldn’t know who I am, and I like it that way,” she explained.
After her RNC speech, she gained more public attention, but she remains focused on golf rather than politics.
A special family bond
Photos and moments with her grandfather show the genuine connection they share, filled with warmth and mutual respect.
Whether on the golf course or at national events, Kai stays humble and true to herself.
With her college golf career ahead, it’s clear Kai Trump’s story is just beginning — and many are excited to see what the future holds for this talented young athlete.
