Makena White, the girlfriend of PGA Tour golfer Jake Knapp, died earlier this week at the age of 28, according to a statement posted on her Instagram account on Friday by a friend.
The announcement came as the golf community gathered for the Ryder Cup’s opening day on Long Island, New York.
Why It Matters
White’s passing has deeply affected the golfing world, especially in connection to her partner Knapp who rose to prominence on the PGA Tour in early 2024.
White’s growing popularity on social media and her steadfast presence at tournaments had made her a recognizable and appreciated figure among fans and professionals.
Her sudden death sparked waves of tributes and highlighted her impact on the people and communities she touched.
What To Know
White was born and raised in Ottawa, Canada. She attended McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, where she studied communications and software engineering.
White and Knapp reportedly began dating in August 2023. She was a regular attendee at his tournaments, supporting him throughout landmark moments, including his first PGA Tour win at the Mexico Open at Vidanta in February 2024. White’s public appearances alongside Knapp drew positive attention on social platforms, and she frequently shared details of his professional life online. Her Instagram account has surpassed 14,000 followers, while her X account has 9,000, as she became a fan-favorite presence in the golfing world.
After finishing her studies, White pursued a career at Lemaitre, contributing to the company’s medical device operations. Her professional and personal pursuits saw her travel widely, both for work and to accompany Knapp to tournaments in locations that included Mexico and Scotland
The cause of White’s death has not been disclosed publicly. Both Knapp and White’s family requested privacy and refrained from releasing additional details.
What People Are Saying
Jake Knapp, PGA Tour golfer and White’s boyfriend, told People earlier this week: “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.”
A friend, speaking via White’s Instagram, wrote: “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.”
Amanda Balionis, CBS Sports journalist, commented earlier this week: “Getting to know Makena was one of my favorite parts of this last year. So much laughter, passion, and she never met a stranger. I will miss her light… it touched so many.”
What Happens Next?
Friends said those who want to honor White’s memory can make donations to the Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic or the Griffin Bell Endowment Fund.