PGA Tour winner Jake Knapp breaks silence on Makena White’s death at 28
In his first public comments, Knapp honors Makena White as selfless and loving, while the golf world mourns the sudden loss; no cause of death has been released.
PGA Tour winner Jake Knapp issued his first public remarks Friday about the death of his girlfriend Makena White, describing the loss as a tough reality to comprehend. The 31-year-old American golfer, who captured his lone tour win at the 2024 Mexico Open as a rookie, spoke in a statement provided to People magazine.
Knapp described White as thoughtful and selfless and said the memories they shared will be treasured. He asked for privacy for White's family and friends during what he called a difficult time.
White’s death was announced earlier on her Instagram page, where a friend posted that White was deeply missed by her dad, her family, and her friends, and that her dogs Nelly and Fergie would miss her as well. The post noted that White had a huge heart and a life full of laughter and travel.
Knapp, a 31-year-old American, had been dating White for about two years. The relationship came into public view after Knapp's Mexico Open win in 2024.
White and Knapp celebrated the second year of their relationship in August with a post featuring photos from tournaments over the past year, including messages about living out dreams on the course.
No cause of death has been released for White.
Reactions from the golf world quickly followed. Dan Rapaport, a well-known golf insider, said White was a bright presence in Knapp's life, while Amanda Balionis of CBS Sports noted her warmth and how she never met a stranger.
Friends and fans have expressed sympathy in the comments section of White's last post, and Knapp's circle has asked for privacy as the family processes the loss.
