PGA Tour winner Jake Knapp breaks silence on Makena White’s death at 28
First public comments since her death announced last week, Knapp praises Makena White’s selflessness and reflects on their memories together.
PGA Tour winner Jake Knapp publicly addressed the death of his girlfriend Makena White for the first time Friday, telling People it is 'a tough reality to comprehend' as he remembered her as selfless and thoughtful.
In a statement to People, the 31-year-old American golfer described White as 'such a thoughtful person whose selflessness toward others is something I will always appreciate' and said they shared many unforgettable memories before her death, which was announced on her Instagram page earlier in the week.
White’s Instagram post began with a friend’s note announcing her death and said she is 'already so deeply missed by her Dad, her family, her friends, and of course by (her dogs) Nelly and Fergie.'
Knapp and White had been dating for two years, with their relationship going public after Knapp’s win at the 2024 Mexico Open, which remains his lone PGA Tour victory.
White had posted publicly about their relationship in August, marking their second season together and writing, 'Year 2 of first fairway hugs & watching you live out your dreams,' adding, 'I looooove you sweet boy, you make it so dang easy to be proud.'
No cause of death has been released. Reactions from within the golf world included Dan Rapaport, a prominent golf insider, posting, 'What a light she was.' CBS golf reporter Amanda Balionis commented, '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.'
Knapp’s first public comments come as the golf community mourns a young woman described by friends and followers as kind and outgoing, a presence on and off the course who supported Knapp as he rose to win on tour and who had become a visible figure in the social media posts surrounding their relationship.
