The golf world continues to process the death of PGA Tour star Jake Knapp’s girlfriend, Makena White, at age 28.
After news of her death was announced on White’s Instagram page on Friday, September 27, Knapp shared a heartfelt statement on the Ottawa native’s passing.
“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.”
While a cause of death has not been made public, White spoke about her health issues on social media just a few months before she died.
Jake Knapp’s Girlfriend, Makena White, Wore a Holter Monitor To Track Her Heart Rate
White, Knapp’s No. 1 fan, loved watching her boyfriend play golf. However, she also struggled with the stress of competition. During the U.S. Open in June, where Knapp finished in 62nd place, the surgical equipment sales rep watched from home while working.
She posted a photo of her current heart rate at 133 beats per minute, which is well over the normal range of 60 to 100 beats per minute, according to Harvard Health.
White mentioned the medical term “tachycardia,” which means having an elevated heart rate over 100 beats per minute. However, one month earlier, White hinted her heart condition was much more serious.
She posted a bathroom selfie and wrote, “The irony of being at a cardiac surgery conference (for my job) while wearing a Holter monitor for your own heart defect is pretty funny. Great networking opener though!”
The McMaster University in Hamilton alum also alluded to undergoing a procedure in April. The Senators superfan posted, “Holy [expletive]. Just rose from 6h post anesthesia nap. I’m high as a kite and the Sens won 4-0. Need someone to confirm this is real.”
Makena White Remained Incredibly Active, Jake Knapp Commented On Her Athletic Ability
White’s Instagram page includes photos of her golfing, hiking, riding horses, skydiving, and snowboarding. Last October, White ran a marathon.
Knapp, who started dating White in August 2023, celebrated White’s birthday in July on Instagram. However, the post has since been deleted.
He wrote at the time, “Happiest of birthdays to the hardest working girl I know. Can’t thank you enough for being my rock during this crazy year. Hope this next year is filled with lots of golf, workouts, flights and all the Fergie snuggles you can handle. I love you.”