The golfing world mourns the sudden death of Makena White, girlfriend of PGA Tour star Jake Knapp. She passed away this week at just 28 years old. The news surfaced on White’s Instagram, shared by a close friend who expressed heartbreak and grief.
White’s friend described her as one of a kind, someone who made everyone feel special. She mentioned that her family, friends, and her dogs, Nelly and Fergie, already miss her deeply.
No details about the cause of death or where she was at the time have been revealed.
Friends and Fans Remember Makena’s Spark
Comments poured in under the Instagram post, filled with love and sadness. CBS Sports reporter Amanda Balionis wrote that getting to know Makena was one of her favorite parts of the past year. She praised her laughter, passion, and ability to brighten every room.
Golf writer and podcaster Dan Rapoport called her “a light,” emphasizing how much she touched everyone around her.
A Love Story in the Spotlight
Makena White and Jake Knapp started dating in August 2023. They kept their relationship private until Knapp won his first PGA Tour event at the Mexico Open in February 2024. From that moment, they appeared together in the media, celebrating his career milestones.
Knapp turned pro in 2016 and played on PGA Tour Canada between 2016 and 2019. He returned to the Korn Ferry Tour in 2020, 2021, and 2023. He earned his PGA Tour card in 2024 and won his first event in only his fifth start. Last year, he recorded three top-10 finishes, including T6 at the Cognizant Classic in Florida, T4 at the Rocket Classic in Detroit, and T3 at the 3M Open in Minnesota. He reached the FedEx Cup playoffs, finishing tied for 62nd at the FedEx St. Jude Championship in Memphis.
Makena’s Life Beyond Golf
Makena White was born in Ottawa, Ontario. She graduated from McMaster University in 2019 with degrees in communications and software engineering. She worked in surgical sales, providing equipment to vascular and cardiac surgeons.
She loved sports, especially hockey. Her hometown team, the Ottawa Senators, had her full support.
Makena once admitted she had been a decent golfer as a child but lost interest between ages 16 and 21. After meeting Knapp, she rediscovered her love for the game.
Instagram Shows Her Love and Pride
White’s last Instagram post celebrated Knapp’s second PGA Tour season. She wrote about being grateful to share the journey with him and expressed love and pride in his achievements. Her words showed a strong bond and the joy she found in supporting his career.
How Fans Can Honor Makena
White’s friend suggested donations in her memory to the Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic or the Griffin Bell Endowment Fund. These causes were important to her, and contributions offer a way to celebrate her life.
Remembering a Vibrant Spirit
Makena White left a lasting mark on everyone she met. Friends, family, and fans remember her laughter, energy, and generosity. Her love for life and her kind heart inspired many.
Her sudden passing reminds the world how fragile life can be. She will be remembered not only as Jake Knapp’s partner but as a vibrant person who brought light wherever she went.
The golf community, her loved ones, and fans continue to honor her memory. Her impact remains in the lives she touched, the moments she shared, and the joy she spread.
Makena White’s legacy will live on. Her spirit will shine in the memories of all who knew and loved her.
