Caitlin Clark, known widely for her talent on the basketball court, also has a deep passion for golf, a sport where she has been gaining attention beyond her WNBA success. Recently, legendary golfer Annika Sörenstam spoke about the advice she gave Clark during their time on the course together, offering insights on how to compete at the highest level. Their interaction took place last year, highlighting the crossover between elite athletes in different sports.
In an interview with PFSN, Sörenstam described spending quality time with Clark during The ANNIKA tournament in Tampa, where Clark participated in the pro-am event. The legendary golfer reflected on their shared experiences and the importance of perseverance and hard work in sports.
Lessons in Persistence and Passion from Annika Sörenstam
Annika Sörenstam emphasized to Clark that even those with natural talent must commit to a long-term process filled with discipline and dedication to reach the highest stage. While noting Clark’s tremendous achievements and charisma, Sörenstam shared stories and offered advice related to handling expectations and maintaining passion.
I spent some time with her in the fall. She came to The Annika, which is an LPGA tournament in the Tampa area, and I just spent some time with her and played nine holes. She’s a tremendous person, obviously amazing on the court and drawing some huge crowds to women’s basketball,
Sörenstam said.
She added,
So, just I think anybody up-and-coming — take somebody who’s not as successful as Caitlin yet — but it just takes a long time, a lot of discipline, a lot of commitment and hard work to get there, but just trust yourself and keep working hard,
underscoring her message to young athletes like Clark.
Caitlin Clark’s Growing Reputation on the Golf Course
Clark’s golf skills have drawn attention beyond basketball fans. In the 2024 ANNIKA Pro-Am at Pelican Golf Club, she shared the course with not only Sörenstam but also golf star Nelly Korda, attracting sizable crowds eager to witness this blend of basketball talent and golfing prowess. Clark displayed resilience during the event, recovering quickly after a near mishap with a spectator and sinking a critical six-foot birdie putt on the 12th hole using a tee shot from Sörenstam.
Sörenstam praised Clark’s golfing ability, noting her background in the sport during her younger years,
“It was pretty good. She played golf when she was younger; I think she played high school golf or something like that. So yeah, she’s quite the player. She should play in (the American Century Championship) one of these years,”
she remarked.
Clark’s Dual Commitments: Balancing Golf and Basketball Success
Clark’s involvement with professional golf events has extended beyond The ANNIKA Pro-Am, including her participation in the 2023 John Deere Classic Pro-Am. These experiences reflect her enthusiasm and capability in golf, which she pursues alongside a demanding basketball career.
However, Clark’s WNBA journey has encountered challenges. In her second season, she has struggled with quadriceps and groin injuries that forced her to miss the 2025 WNBA All-Star Game. Despite these setbacks, her statistical performance remains strong, averaging 16.5 points, 8.8 assists, and 5.0 rebounds per game.
The Influence of a Golf Legend on a Rising Star’s Pursuit of Excellence
Annika Sörenstam’s 97 international professional wins, including 72 LPGA victories and 10 major championships, make her one of the most accomplished golfers in history. Her career grand slam and record-setting 59 stroke round symbolize a level of mastery few have attained.
By sharing her wisdom and encouragement, Sörenstam is supporting Caitlin Clark’s development not only as an athlete but also as a competitor across multiple disciplines. This mentorship highlights the shared values of hard work and commitment that bridge basketball and golf, offering Clark valuable perspective as she continues to navigate her path forward both on the court and on the fairway.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why was Caitlin Clark sitting with Taylor Swift?
A. During the Chiefs’ playoff game against the Houston Texans at Arrowhead Stadium, Clark and Swift were spotted in the same suite. This was the first game they attended together. Clark mentioned that Swift had invited her to join earlier this season.
Q. Why is Taylor Swift sitting with Caitlin Clark?
A. Taylor Swift attended a Chiefs home game against the Houston Texans and was spotted sitting beside WNBA player Caitlin Clark. Clark joined her in the suite after revealing that Swift had invited her to the game.
Q. What did Taylor Swift give Caitlin Clark?
A. Taylor Swift gifted Caitlin Clark every T-shirt and sweatshirt from the Eras Tour collection. When Caitlin, a WNBA star, attended the Eras Tour in Indianapolis in 2024, Taylor made sure she got four bags of tour merchandise.
Q. Is Caitlin Clark hanging out with Taylor Swift?
A. Clark mentioned that she and Swift “really enjoyed” the playoff game in Kansas City. She described it as the “ideal game” to attend with Swift. She added that it’s “adorable” to see Swift’s enthusiasm for the Chiefs, saying, “sharing that experience with her was delightful.”