Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark will not return to the ANNIKA Pro-Am for its 2026 edition due to a scheduling conflict. The tournament is set for November 11 at Pelican Golf Club in Belleair, Florida, preceding the ANNIKA driven by Gainbridge tournament.
Impact of Clark’s Previous Appearances
Clark first joined the Pro-Am in 2024 following her debut WNBA season through her partnership with Indianapolis-based company Gainbridge. Her participation drew substantial attention, resulting in a reported attendance increase of more than 1,200% for the tournament.
She returned for the following year’s event, teaming up with 2024 champion Nelly Korda and sponsor invite Lauryn Nguyen. During her 2025 appearance, Fever teammates Sophie Cunningham and Lexie Hull participated as her celebrity caddies.
Tournament Plans and Future Outlook
Despite her absence for the upcoming event, tournament organizers have indicated that future appearances remain possible. Mike Nichols, chief of sponsorship strategy and activation for Group 1001, stated to Golfweek on October 1 that she will not play this year, adding that organizers have appreciated her energy over the past two years and hope to welcome her back later.
The 2026 tournament will feature a 108-player field headlined by seven of the world’s top-ranked golfers competing for a $3.25 million purse at the event named after LPGA legend Annika Sörenstam. Sponsor exemptions have also been awarded to Annabelle Pancake-Webb, Scarlett Schremmer, and Macy Pate.
Fans awaiting another appearance by the Fever star on the golf course will need to wait for future editions of the tournament.
