Golf World Rocked By News PGA Star Jake Knapp’s Girlfriend Makena White, 28, Dies Ahead of Ryder Cup

Tragic news has rocked the golf world as PGA Tour winner Jake Knapp’s girlfriend, Makena White, has died at the age of 28.

The news was confirmed in a message shared on White’s Instagram page by a friend who wrote, “Hi everyone — this is Makena’s friend, writing with the heaviest heart to share that Makena passed away earlier this week. She is already so deeply missed by her Dad, her family, her friends, and of course by [pet dogs] Nelly and Fergie.”

The tribute continued, “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.”

No other details regarding the cause of death or where White was when she died were revealed. Knapp, 31, did not qualify for this year’s Ryder Cup.

White, who was from Ottawa, Canada, attended McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, graduating in 2019 with degrees in communications and software engineering, according to Golf Monthly. She went on to build a career in surgical sales.

White and Knapp began dating in August 2023 and went public with their relationship in February 2024, when she attended the Mexico Open and celebrated with Knapp after his maiden PGA Tour win.

Just last month, White shared a message of support on Instagram, writing, “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.”

Following news of her death, tributes poured in from those who knew her, including CBS Sports golf reporter Amanda Balionis, who 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… it touched so many.”

The message announcing her passing concluded with a request to honor her memory through donations to the Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic or the Griffin Bell Endowment Fund.