Jake Knapp, the 31-year-old PGA Tour golfer, has been hit with heartbreaking news. His girlfriend, Makena White, passed away suddenly at the age of 28 earlier this week. A close friend shared the news on Instagram just as the Ryder Cup began on Friday. The post said Makena had passed away and is deeply missed by her father, her family, her friends, and her dogs, Nelly and Fergie. No cause of death was given. The details around her passing remain private.
Jake Knapp’s girlfriend Makena White sudden death shocks fans and friends
The announcement came from one of Makena White’s friends on Instagram. The post described her as “one of a kind” who always made people feel special. It said her love brought joy and laughter to everyone around her. The same post asked people to donate in her memory. The suggested donations were for the Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic and the Griffin Bell Endowment Fund.Makena White was from Ottawa, Canada. She graduated from McMaster University in 2019 with degrees in communications and software engineering. She later worked in surgical sales. Makena also had a personal connection to the Bruyère Clinic. Her mother, who passed away in 2022, had been treated there. This made the request for donations even more meaningful.
Jake Knapp and Makena White’s love story in golf spotlight
Makena White and Jake Knapp began dating in August 2023. At first, they kept their relationship quiet. But in February 2024, the couple went public. That was after Knapp won his first PGA Tour title at the Mexico Open. Their hug on the 18th green became a viral moment.Makena White often supported Jake at tournaments. She was there when he made history with a bogey-free 59 at the 2025 Cognizant Classic. On August 11, 2025, she posted a loving message to him on Instagram. She wrote, “Year 2 of first fairway hugs & watching you live out your dreams … I looooove you sweet boy, you make it so dang easy to be proud.” Jake Knapp replied with two heart emojis. Since her passing, he has not spoken publicly.Also Read: Roger Federer net worth in 2025: Billionaire status, tennis career, earnings and life after retirement
Golf world pays tribute to Makena White
The news of Jake Knapp’s girlfriend, Makena White’s death has left the golf world in shock. CBS Sports reporter Amanda Balionis posted, “Getting to know Makena was one of my favorite parts of this last year … I will miss her light.” Golf podcaster Dan Rapoport also wrote, “What a light she was.”Her death was announced the same week the Ryder Cup started. That timing added even more sadness for the golf community. Friends, fans, and players are mourning her loss. She is remembered as a young woman full of kindness, joy, and support for Jake Knapp.
