PGA Tour golfer Jake Knapp’s girlfriend, Makena White, died suddenly at age 28 last week. The devastating news was shared on White’s Instagram page on Friday, September.
The caption read, “Hi everyone – this is Makena’s friend, writing with the heaviest heart to share that Makena passed away earlier this week. She is already so deeply missed by her Dad, her family, her friends, and of course by Nelly and Fergie,” her two dogs.
“Makena was one of a kind. She had this rare way of making you feel special, and her huge heart was always overflowing with love. To be loved by Makena was a gift; one that came with endless laughter, so much joy, and a healthy sprinkling of chaos as we tried to keep up with her travel schedule.”
“If you would like to honour Makena’s memory, donations to the Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic or the Griffin Bell Endowment Fund would mean a lot. We love you Mak. We’ll miss you always, and we’ll be looking for you in the sunset 💛.”
A cause of death has not been made public. White is preceded in death by her mother, Crystal, who died on April 2, 2022. White commemorated her mom’s death on Instagram at the time and wrote, “01/08/53 – 04/02/22. I hope heaven has a dance floor 💛.”
While Knapp didn’t post on Instagram following White’s death, he shared a heartbreaking statement on her passing.
Jake Knapp Said, ‘It’s An Understatement To Say How Hard All Of This Is’ After His Girlfriend Died
Knapp, who’s not competing in the 2025 Ryder Cup, shared an exclusive statement with People after news of White’s death became public.
“Makena was such a thoughtful person whose selflessness toward others is something I will always appreciate,” Knapp wrote. “We shared so many unforgettable memories together and now that she’s no longer with us, it’s a tough reality to comprehend. She had an incredible family, great friends, and her fun, outgoing energy will be missed by all of us.
“It’s an understatement to say how hard all of this is to process for everyone who knew Mak, especially her family and friends, who deserve privacy and respect during this difficult time.”
Jake Knapp Didn’t Share Any Photos of Makena White On Instagram, But Left Loving Comments On Her Posts
While the 31-year-old golfer kept his Instagram page strictly sports-related, White’s Instagram page was filled with photos of the couple. The Ottawa-native was also active on Twitter despite the “crippling anxiety” she felt on social media.
White celebrated his birthday last year by calling him “the kindest, hardest working, most generous, handsome, talented person I’ll ever know.” He commented, “Best girlfriend award ❤️ See you so soooooooon ❤️.”
When White celebrated Knapp carding 12-under 59 in the opening round of the Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches in March, he commented, “Get this girl a united sponsorship and a backup passport ❤️.”