Just before the Ryder Cup began on Friday, PGA Tour pro Jake Knapp faced a heartbreaking personal tragedy. His girlfriend, Makena White, passed away at the age of 28. The devastating news was initially shared on social media by a close friend.
PGA Tour professional Jake Knapp suffered a heartbreaking personal tragedy just before the Ryder Cup kickoff when his girlfriend, Makena White, passed away at the age of 28. The devastating news was first shared on Friday, September 26, via a heartfelt message posted on White’s Instagram account by a close friend.
“Hi everyone — this is Makena’s friend, writing with the heaviest heart to share that Makena White cause of death passed away earlier this week. Makena White cause of death is already so deeply missed by her Dad, her family, her friends, and of course by Nelly and Fergie,” the post read.
The tribute described Makena as “one of a kind,” with a rare ability to make those around her feel special. “Her huge heart was always overflowing with love,” the friend continued. “To be loved by Makena White 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 cause of Makena White’s death has not been publicly confirmed.
Makena White and Knapp began dating in August 2023, going public with their relationship in February 2024 following Knapp’s maiden PGA Tour victory at the Mexico Open. White was often seen supporting Knapp, including a memorable moment when she surprised him by flying in for the final round of a tournament and embracing him on the 18th green — a scene captured by broadcasters.
White’s final social media post was a touching tribute to Knapp:
“Year 2 of first fairway hugs & watching you live out your dreams 🫶🏼 Second season in the books — forever grateful to be on this walk with you, here’s to many many many more. I looooove you sweet boy, you make it so dang easy to be proud 💛.”
Who was Makena White?
Makena White was the 28-year-old girlfriend of PGA Tour professional golfer Jake Knapp. Originally from Ottawa, Canada, Makena was a remarkable young woman loved by many. She graduated from McMaster University in 2019 with degrees in communications and software engineering. After graduation, she worked in surgical sales, helping provide vital equipment to vascular and cardiac surgeons.
Makena’s vibrant personality and big heart made her stand out. She had a rare gift for making people around her feel special and loved. Friends say being loved by Makena brought joy, laughter, and a lively energy that was infectious.
Cause of death
No cause of death was disclosed in the announcement, and details about the circumstances remain private, leaving fans and friends in shock.
White graduated from McMaster University in 2019 with degrees in communications and software engineering. A passionate sports enthusiast, she supported Knapp at tournaments, including his bogey-free 59 at the 2025 Cognizant Classic and his maiden PGA Tour win at the 2024 Mexico Open, where their embrace on the 18th green went viral.
The couple began dating in August 2023, keeping their relationship low-key until February 2024.
Knapp, 31, who missed the Ryder Cup cut, has not publicly commented, but tributes have poured in from the golf world. CBS Sports’ Amanda Balionis wrote, “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.”
Golf podcaster Dan Rapoport added, “What a light she was.”
Did Makena White die due to drug overdose?
Makena White and Knapp began dating in August 2023, but did not publicly announce their relationship until February 2024. After that, she was seen publicly supporting Knapp at several events.
White’s last post on Instagram, from August 11, praised Knapp. “Second season in the books — forever grateful to be on this walk with you, here’s to many many many more!I looooove you sweet boy, you make it so dang easy to be proud,” she wrote.
No information is available on White’s cause of death.
How did Makena and Jake’s relationship begin?
Makena and Jake Knapp started dating in August 2023 but kept their relationship private for a while. They went public with their relationship in early 2024 after Jake won his first PGA Tour title at the Mexico Open.
Makena was often seen supporting Jake at his tournaments. Their love was visible to fans, especially during memorable moments like Jake’s historic bogey-free 59 at the 2025 Cognizant Classic.
Their bond was full of love and shared dreams. Just weeks before her passing, Makena posted a touching message on Instagram expressing her pride and love for Jake. She wrote about their “first fairway hugs” and watching Jake live his dreams. Her words showed deep affection and optimism for the future they envisioned together.
Jake Knapp breaks silence
Meanwhile, Jake Knapp broke his silence after the death of his girlfriend Makena White. Hours after White’s death was announced on Friday, Sept. 26, the PGA golfer broke his silence and remembered his girlfriend in a statement.
“Makena was such a thoughtful person whose selflessness toward others is something I will always appreciate,” Knapp wrote in a statement exclusively to PEOPLE. “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.”
The Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic previously shared that White’s mother, Crystal, started going to the clinic 2018 and was eventually diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease. Her mom died in April 2022, according to White’s Instagram.
What makes Makena’s story so memorable?
Makena White’s story is more than just about a tragic loss. It is about a young woman who lived fully with love and kindness. She built a career, supported her partner’s dream, and touched countless lives with her warmth.
Her last public message was a testament to her love for Jake and her belief in their future together. The couple’s shared moments, like the viral hug after Jake’s 2024 Mexico Open victory, captured the hearts of many.
Her sudden passing reminds us of the fragile and precious nature of life. It also highlights how the people behind sports stars have stories worth sharing—stories full of hope, love, and sometimes heartbreak.
In the wake of her passing, Makena’s friends and family have requested donations in her memory be made to two important causes. These are the Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic and the Griffin Bell Endowment Fund. These organizations support vital research and care, reflecting a desire to create positive change amid the sorrow.
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