Who Is Jake Knapp's GF, Makena White? Died Suddenly At 28, Admitted Her Love For Him In Last IG Post

The golfing world is in shock following the sudden death of Makena White, the girlfriend of PGA Tour golfer, Jake Knapp. Makena passed away earlier this week at just 28 years old, leaving behind her family, friends, and Jake behind for whom she openly professed her love in her last Instagram post. A close friend confirmed the news of her death on September 26, 2025. It is the same week that the Ryder Cup began, adding to the heartbreak felt across the golf community. CBS Sports' Amanda Balionis wrote on Instagram, "Getting to know Makena was one of my favorite parts of this last year … I will miss her light."

Who Was Makena White?

Makena White was originally from Ottawa, Canada. She graduated from McMaster University in 2019 with two degrees in communications and software engineering. After completing her education, she worked in surgical sales. Makena for her warmth, kindness, and also had a personal connection to the Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic, where her late mother received treatment before her demise in 2022. Several friends and known ones took to their Instagram handles and remembered her as someone with "a huge heart overflowing with love."

Makena White's love story with Jake Knapp

Makena White and Jake Knapp began dating in August 2023. They initially kept their relationship private. They went public in early 2024, after Jake Knapp claimed his first PGA Tour victory at the Mexico Open. The couple shared an emotional hug on the 18th green, and quickly went viral that bringing their love story into the spotlight. Since then, Makena White was often spotted supporting Jake at tournaments. She was by his side when he shot a historic bogey-free 59 at the 2025 Cognizant Classic. Their relationship was frequently visible both on and off the course, with Makena proudly sharing moments of Jake's success on social media.

Makena White's final Instagram post

Just one day after Jake's tournament appearance at the FedEx St. Jude Championship, Makena posted pictures with him on her Instagram handle on August 11, 2025, on what became her last post. The heartfelt message reflected both her admiration for Jake Knapp's career and the depth of her love for him. Makena admitted how she felt grateful to be beside him in his journey in golf and wished for many more years to come. In her words:

"Year 2 of first fairway hugs and 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 more to come. I looooove you, sweet boy, you make it so dang easy to be proud."

Makena White passed away suddenly at the age of 28

The announcement of Makena White's death was made by a close friend on her Instagram page. She described Makena as "one of a kind" and urged donations in her memory to the Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic or the Griffin Bell Endowment Fund, close to her heart. The tribute also mentioned how much she was loved by her family, friends, and her beloved dogs, Nelly and Fergie. The cause of her death is yet to be revealed. Meanwhile, Jake Knapp has not competed since August 10, 2025.

We send our heartfelt condolences to Makena White's family in this difficult time.

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