PGA Golfer Jake Knapp’s Girlfriend Makena White Passes Away at 28

OAKVILLE, Ontario — The American golf community is mourning the loss of Makena White, the girlfriend of PGA Tour professional Jake Knapp, who passed away unexpectedly at the age of 28. The tragic news was shared on White’s Instagram account by a friend on September 26, 2025.

In the heartfelt post, it was announced, ‘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 [her dogs] Nelly and Fergie.’

The post described White as ‘one of a kind’ with a ‘huge heart overflowing with love.’ It continued, ‘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.’

The post also included information about honoring her memory through donations to the Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic or the Griffin Bell Endowment Fund. No details about the cause of death have been disclosed.

Friends, including CBS Sports reporter Amanda Balionis, expressed their condolences in the comments section, sharing memories of White’s joyful spirit. ‘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,’ Balionis wrote.

White, a Montreal native, graduated in 2019 from McMaster University with degrees in communications and software engineering. She worked in surgical sales, primarily supplying equipment to vascular and cardiac surgeons. She was also a devoted fan of hockey, supporting her hometown team, the Ottawa Senators.

Her relationship with Knapp began in August 2023 and they went public after he won his first PGA Tour event at the Mexico Open in February 2024. Despite her past disinterest in golf, White re-discovered the sport through her connection with Knapp, who turned professional in 2016.

Knapp has made a name for himself on the PGA Tour, earning his tour card in 2024 after finishing in the top 10 in three separate tournaments.

The absence of White will be felt deeply within the golfing community, as many remember her bright personality and love for life.