Knapp breaks silence on Makena White’s death at 28, calling it 'a tough reality to comprehend'

PGA Tour winner Jake Knapp made his first public comments about the death of his girlfriend Makena White, saying it is a “tough reality to comprehend.” In a statement provided to People on Friday, Knapp remembered White as a thoughtful, selfless partner whose presence left a lasting impression on those who knew her.

White’s death was announced on her Instagram page earlier in the day, the post noting that she was “already so deeply missed by her Dad, her family, her friends, and of course by (her dogs) Nelly and Fergie.” The message, written by a friend, described White as having a “huge heart” and a magnetic energy that drew people in, and it conveyed the profound sense of loss felt by her circle. The cause of death has not been released, and no additional information was provided by Knapp or White’s family.

Knapp and White had been dating for two years, with their relationship becoming public after Knapp’s breakthrough victory at the 2024 Mexico Open as a rookie on the PGA Tour — a win that marked his first tour title. The couple often appeared together at tournaments, and White’s social media posts frequently highlighted their shared passion for golf and travel. In August, White posted a retrospective tribute to their relationship on their anniversary, sharing pictures from tournaments and events over the past year.

“Year 2 of first fairway hugs & watching you live out your dreams,” she wrote in one caption. “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.” The public note underscored how closely intertwined their lives had become in a relatively short period.

Knapp’s discussion with People included a reflection on White’s character: “Makena was such a thoughtful person whose selflessness toward others is something I will always appreciate,” he said. He added that they had shared “so many unforgettable memories together,” and that now, with her absence, it is difficult for all who knew her to process what has happened. Knapp’s comments emphasized the private pain faced by those closest to White and by the communities surrounding her, including friends, family, and fans who followed their story through social media and press coverage.

The sudden loss has drawn messages of support from colleagues and commentators across the sports world. Dan Rapaport, a prominent golf insider, left supportive remarks in the comments of White’s final Instagram post, calling her “a light.” CBS golf reporter Amanda Balionis also weighed in on social media, noting how White’s warmth and enthusiasm resonated with many who never met her but felt connected through the couple’s public moments. Their messages reflected the broader sense of loss within the golf community and among those who followed Knapp’s rise.

The timeline surrounding White’s death remains unclear, with authorities and representatives not releasing a cause or any further details at this time. In the immediate aftermath, Knapp’s decision to speak publicly marked a departure from a period of private mourning, offering a window into the personal impact of White’s passing and highlighting the human side of athletes who often live in the public eye.

White and Knapp had formed a notable narrative within the sport’s landscape in recent years, particularly as Knapp built momentum on the PGA Tour. White’s presence at events and her posts about travel, family, and life with Knapp helped fans see a more personal side of a player who had already garnered attention for his on-course success. The couple’s public appearances during 2024 and 2025 contributed to a broader conversation about athletes balancing competitive pressures with personal relationships and private sorrow.

As the investigation continues, representatives for Knapp and White have asked for privacy and respect for the family during this difficult time. The golf community, fans, and figures associated with the sport have continued to send messages of support, praising White’s warmth and the positive impact she had on those around her. The public record indicates that the couple’s relationship was an important part of Knapp’s life and career in the years leading up to her passing, and the athletic world is now processing the loss alongside those closest to White.

In the wake of the news, several observers noted the resilience Knapp has shown in publicly addressing his girlfriend’s death. The disclosure also underscored the broader human dimension of sports figures, reminding audiences that behind the headlines of wins and standings are individuals who navigate joy and grief in equal measure. The situation remains ongoing, with no additional details released about the circumstances of White’s passing, and no further public statements from Knapp at this time.