Heartbreak on the PGA Tour: Rising Star Jake Knapp’s Girlfriend Makena White Dies Suddenly at 28, Leaving Golf World in Shock
The golf community is mourning the devastating loss of Makena White, the 28-year-old girlfriend of professional golfer Jake Knapp, who died unexpectedly this week. Her passing was confirmed on September 26 through a heartfelt Instagram tribute by a close friend. Though no official cause of death has been released, the news has shaken both fans and fellow athletes alike, casting a shadow over one of the PGA’s most promising young players.
White was remembered in moving words shared online, described as someone with “a rare way of making you feel special” and whose kindness left a lasting impact on everyone she met. Friends also encouraged those wishing to honor her memory to donate to the Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic or the Griffin Bell Endowment Fund, organizations close to her heart.
A Relationship in the Spotlight
White and Knapp had been dating for nearly two years, stepping into the public eye in early 2024 after Knapp’s breakthrough victory at the Mexico Open — his first PGA Tour win. From that moment, White became a familiar figure at tournaments, supporting her boyfriend as his career gained momentum.
Her final Instagram post, dated August 11, now reads like a bittersweet love letter. Captioned with heartfelt words, she wrote:
“Year 2 of first fairway hugs & watching you live out your dreams… forever grateful to be on this walk with you. I looooove you sweet boy, you make it so dang easy to be proud 💛.”
Earlier this year, on Knapp’s birthday, White also expressed how he made “everywhere we go feel like home,” highlighting the deep bond the two shared.
Jake Knapp’s Rising Career
Born in Costa Mesa, California, Jake Knapp turned professional in 2016 after a standout amateur career. He spent years competing on the PGA Tour Canada and Korn Ferry Tour before earning his PGA Tour card. His breakthrough came in February 2024, when he captured his first victory at the Mexico Open, instantly becoming a player to watch.
Most recently, Knapp competed at the FedEx St. Jude Championship in August, finishing tied for 62nd. While he was not part of the 2025 Ryder Cup roster, his career trajectory has been on the rise — and White had been a constant presence on that journey.
Tributes and Legacy
In the wake of White’s sudden death, tributes have poured in across social media from friends, fans, and members of the golf community. Many described her as radiant, loving, and supportive — a person who brightened every space she entered. One friend wrote:
“We love you Mak. We’ll miss you always, and we’ll be looking for you in the sunset.”
For Knapp, who has not yet spoken publicly about his loss, the tragedy marks an unimaginable personal heartbreak at a pivotal moment in his career.
While the details surrounding her passing remain private, one thing is clear: Makena White’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved her, the fans who followed her journey with Jake, and the causes she supported.
Her loss is not only a personal tragedy for Knapp, but also a reminder of the fragile balance between triumph and grief, even in the glamorous world of professional sports.
