Makena White Dies at 28 — PGA Golfer Jake Knapp Mourns Loss
Life & Relationship with Jake Knapp
According to People, White and Knapp had been together for more than two years. Their relationship became public after Knapp won his first PGA Tour title at the Mexico Open in February 2024. White frequently supported Knapp at tournaments, cheering him on from the sidelines.
In her final Instagram post from August, White wrote: “Year 2 of first fairway hugs & watching you live out your dreams … forever grateful … I looooove you sweet boy.”
Announcement & Tributes
White’s death was confirmed through a statement posted on her Instagram, describing her as “one of a kind” with a “huge heart.” The message encouraged donations to the Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic and the Griffin Bell Endowment Fund, causes meaningful to her family.
Knapp, currently ranked around 80 in the world, last competed at the FedEx St. Jude Championship but was not selected for the 2025 Ryder Cup.
Public Response & Legacy
News outlets including Newsweek and Fox News reported an outpouring of condolences from fans, golfers, and friends. Tributes described White as someone with an extraordinary ability to make others feel loved and valued.
While her cause of death has not been disclosed, her influence through kindness, encouragement, and unwavering support for Knapp’s career has left a lasting legacy.