Hollywood veteran Scott Baio has found an unlikely ally in the golf world.
When his daughter, Bailey Baio, received criticism for her decision to turn pro, none other than golf icon Phil Mickelson publicly voiced his support, a show of solidarity that’s sparking conversation beyond tee boxes and movie sets.
Bailey, who has been honing her skills on the amateur circuit, recently made her professional debut.
Still an amateur, she made her pro debut on the NXXT women’s pro tour at Stoneybrook West Golf Course in Winter Garden, Florida.
Her performance and familial connection drew scrutiny online, prompting her father to defend her ambitions.
Critics questioned whether she was ready, and some wondered if her celebrity parentage had opened doors for her.
Why Mickelson’s support matters
Baio, best known for his acting career in sitcoms and soaps, hasn’t shied away from sharing his daughter’s path. He posted about her pro start on X, and expressed pride in her drive.
At times, that pride has been met with skepticism. Critics argue that being a celebrity’s child comes with privilege, a narrative that Bailey now faces in her competitive pursuit.
In the face of criticism, Phil Mickelson shared an expression of support for Scott Baio and his daughter, writing, “What a great life moment to share with your daughter and incredible experience for her to compete with professionals while still being a young amateur. I love this for you both.”
Later on, Baio responded to a comment suggesting that his daughter had some kind of advantage in the tournament, “My daughter qualified for this tournament. She earned her way into this tournament.”
Kai Trump, another subject of “nepotism” claims
The criticism also extended to Kai Trump, granddaughter of President Donald Trump, and the question of whether her grandfather’s connections helped her earn a spot on the LPGA tour.
“My grandpa pretty much told me go out there and have fun. Just don’t get nervous. Try my best not to,” Trump recalled.
The younger Trump has not acknowledged claims of nepotism, instead sharing her improvement updates as she progresses through the world of professional golf.
At this year’s The ANNIKA at Pelican Golf Club, the 18-year-old opened with a 13-over-par 83, placing dead last among the 108 players in the field.
Despite the tough start, she left the course with her head held high, offering blunt self-reflection, optimism, and a handful of encouraging signs.
On her second day, Kai Trump looked more composed. She shaved eight strokes off her score and walked away saying she felt “very calm and peaceful … that’s why I played better.”
Her appearance in the tournament has stirred debate. Critics questioned whether her invitation, a sponsor’s exemption, was driven more by her famous name than by merit.
In preparation for this week, Trump leaned on her support network: both President Donald Trump and Tiger Woods reportedly offered advice.
Woods, who is dating her mother, Vanessa Trump, emphasized staying loose and “just going with the flow.”
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