Gianna Clemente Says She’s ‘Thrilled’ to Kick Off Her First Professional Season in Thailand and Join the Nike Family
Seventeen-year-old US golf phenom embraces pro debut at Honda LPGA Thailand and marks a new milestone with sportswear sponsorship.
Gianna Clemente, a 17-year-old American golf talent, has expressed her excitement as she begins her first professional season in Thailand, where she also announced her new partnership with Nike.
Clemente made the remarks at the Honda LPGA Thailand, where she is set to officially launch her professional career after recently turning pro.
The teenager, who received a rare age waiver from the Ladies Professional Golf Association allowing her to compete professionally before her eighteenth birthday in March, described Thailand as a fitting stage for the start of her journey in elite golf.
A native of Estero, Florida, Clemente boasts a distinguished amateur record, including numerous titles, a notable finish at the Honda LPGA Thailand last year and multiple appearances on the LPGA Tour.
She also advanced through stages of the LPGA Qualifying Series and is aiming to earn full Tour status through final qualifying later this year.
Her announcement of joining the Nike family adds a commercial milestone to her budding career.
The endorsement by one of the sport’s most recognisable brands underscores her rising profile and market appeal as she transitions from amateur standout to professional competitor.
Clemente’s decision to turn professional at a young age follows her exceptional performances on both junior and professional stages.
The LPGA’s age waiver, extended in recognition of her extensive competitive experience and strong results in LPGA events, has enabled her to pursue full professional competition without delay.
At the Honda LPGA Thailand, Clemente’s presence underscores not only her own aspirations but also the growing international reach of Asia’s premier women’s golf events.
Her engagement with fans and sponsors reflects broader interest in emerging young stars who are reshaping the future of the sport.
With backing from Nike and a competitive debut under way, Clemente now faces the challenge of advancing through professional ranks while maintaining the poise and performance that have defined her trajectory to date.
Her progress at the upcoming qualifying stages and early professional tournaments will be closely followed by golf enthusiasts, with expectations high for a standout newcomer in the global women’s game.