Caitlin Clark shines bright in Annika Pro-Am

Golf hasn't seen crowds like this since Tiger Woods' glory days. But at last week's Pro-Am Event, superstar basketball player, Caitlin Clark, drew such a crowd. At The Annika driven by Gainbridge, Clark played 18 holes with both LPGA star, Nelly Korda, and golfing legend Annika Sorenstam.

Clark played the first nine holes with Korda, then finished the back nine with Sorenstam. Throughout all 18 holes, she drew a large crowd who followed her every shot and cheered on both her and Korda. The WNBA Rookie of the Year made several impressive shots and putts.

On the fifth hole, Clark was able to pitch out from the rough before sinking a long putt to save her par. Reminiscent of Tiger Woods, the star did a minor fist pump as the crowd cheered Clark on.

Caitlin Clark and Nelly Korda's Pro-Am pairing demonstrated the growing popularity of Women's sports

Clark has risen to prominence as the WNBA Rookie of the Year and three-time Big Ten Women's Basketball Champion as a guard at the University of Iowa. Nelly Korda has had an impressive season, winning five straight tournaments at the start of the year on the LPGA Tour.

Clark spoke of the joy she felt throughout the day in an interview with reporters. “It was so fun,” Clark said after the round. “Getting to see (Nelly and Annika) do what they do up front, people would pay for that. I got to do it for free and have fun with them. Definitely a fun morning. I feel very thankful that Gainbridge had me out here. Obviously, their support of women's sports is tremendous. Very lucky and fortunate. Hung in there, did alright. It was a good day.”

Clark, an Iowa native, has been golfing since she was younger. She participated in the John Deere Classic Pro-Am in 2023. She has also been seen this offseason posting her practice rounds with WNBA teammates such as Lexie Hull.

Additionally, Clark spoke on the uniting impact of sports: "It's bringing people together where they can find joy in something."

It was an important day at The Annika Pro-Am last week as the popularity of women's sports continues to rise across the country. The more eyes that are drawn to each tournament and game, the more the audiences will continue to grow.