PGA Tour golfer Jake Knapp is mourning the loss of his girlfriend, Makena White, who has died at the age of 28.
News of her passing was shared on September 26 through her Instagram account, where a close friend confirmed that Makena had died earlier in the week. The post did not reveal where or how she died, and Knapp himself was not mentioned in the statement.
CBS golf reporter Amanda Balionis was among the first to pay tribute, writing:
“Getting to know Makena was one of my favourite parts of this last year. So much laughter, passion, and she never met a stranger. I will miss her light. It touched so many.”
Makena had been a constant presence alongside Knapp during his rapid rise on the PGA Tour. In 2024, Knapp captured his first title at the Mexico Open at Vidanta, an achievement that signaled his arrival as one of golf’s brightest prospects. Earlier this year, he became just the 15th player in PGA Tour history to record a sub-60 round, achieving the feat at the Cognizant Classic at PGA National. Makena was there that day, embracing him as he walked off the 18th green.
Just six weeks ago, the couple celebrated their two-year anniversary, with Makena sharing a heartfelt Instagram post:
“Forever grateful for our fairway walks. I love you, my sweet boy. You make it so dang easy to be proud.”
In a moving tribute, her friend remembered her warmth, humour, and energy:
“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.”
The post added that Makena will be deeply missed by her father, her family, her friends, and her pets, Nelly and Fergie. Her friend also encouraged those who wish to honour her memory to make donations to the Bruyere Brain Health & Memory Clinic or the Griffin Bell Endowment Fund.
The statement concluded:
“We love you, Mak. We’ll miss you always, and we’ll be looking for you in the sunset.”
Makena White’s passing has left a void for those who knew her best, and her memory will live on in the lives she touched.
