PGA Tour winner Jake Knapp breaks silence on Makena White’s death at 28
In his first public remarks since the loss, Knapp honors White and asks for privacy as families grieve; no cause of death has been released.
Jake Knapp has published his first public comments since the death of his girlfriend Makena White, saying it is “a tough reality to comprehend.” The PGA Tour winner spoke to People in a statement on Friday, describing White as “such a thoughtful person whose selflessness toward others is something I will always appreciate.” He said, “We shared so many unforgettable memories together and now that she’s no longer with us, it’s a tough reality to comprehend.” He added that White had “an incredible family, great friends, and her fun, outgoing energy will be missed by all of us,” and that “it’s an understatement to say how hard all of this is to process for everyone who knew Mak, especially her family and friends, who deserve privacy and respect during this difficult time.”
White's death was announced on her Instagram page earlier in the day. The post read, “Hi everyone – this is Makena’s friend, writing with the heaviest heart to share that Makena passed away earlier this week,” and noted that White was “already so deeply missed by her Dad, her family, her friends, and of course by (her dogs) Nelly and Fergie.” The celebrating friend remembered White for her “huge heart” and overflowing love. “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 read. No cause of death has been released.
White had been dating Knapp, who is 31, for two years; their relationship became public after Knapp won the 2024 Mexico Open as a rookie, his only tour win. In August, White shared a tribute to the couple’s relationship for their anniversary, which featured pictures of the two together at various golf tournaments over the last year. “Year 2 of first fairway hugs & watching you live out your dreams,” she wrote. “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.”
Knapp’s comments come as the golf world processes the loss and offers sympathy for White’s family and friends. Friends and reporters who followed Knapp described White as a warm presence who brought laughter and light to those around her. Dan Rapaport, a golf insider, wrote in the comments on White’s final post, “What a light she was.” CBS’ Amanda Balionis commented that White “never met a stranger” and “touched so many.” Knapp, the 31-year-old who won the Mexico Open in 2024 as a rookie, has kept a relatively low public profile since that win and has not publicly spoken about White until now. The statement to People was framed as a personal reflection and a request for privacy amid a difficult time for those who knew White.