PGA Tour winner Jake Knapp speaks out on girlfriend Makena White's death at 28
Knapp calls the loss a 'tough reality to comprehend' as details remain private; White's family asks for privacy during a difficult time.
PGA Tour winner Jake Knapp issued his first public comments Friday on the death of his girlfriend Makena White, 28, describing the loss as a "tough reality to comprehend." In a statement provided to People, Knapp praised White as thoughtful and selfless, saying, "Makena was such a thoughtful person whose selflessness toward others is something I will always appreciate." He added that they shared many unforgettable memories and that her absence makes the situation hard to process for everyone who knew her.
White's death was announced earlier in the day on her Instagram page, which said 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 a person with a "huge heart" and recalled the joy she brought to those around her.
Knapp, 31, had been dating White for two years; their relationship became public after Knapp won the 2024 Mexico Open as a rookie, the win that elevated him on the PGA Tour. The couple frequently appeared together at tournaments and on social media, with White celebrated by friends for supporting Knapp’s career and living a life she shared with a wide circle of family and friends.
No cause of death has been released. In August, White shared a tribute to the couple’s relationship for their anniversary, posting pictures from 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." The post underscored the couple’s travel schedule and the close bond they shared, which was celebrated by their social circles but remains private in terms of specifics surrounding her passing.
Within the golf community and on social media, tributes poured in. Dan Rapaport, a well-known golf insider, commented on White’s passing, writing, "What a light she was." CBS golf reporter Amanda Balionis also weighed in, noting, "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." The messages reflected a broader sense of loss from friends, colleagues, and fans who had followed the couple’s journey over the past two years.
The family and friends of Makena White have publicly requested privacy as they navigate this difficult time. Knapp’s representatives have indicated he will not be sharing further statements at this time, and no memorial or service details have been announced. The public reaction to White’s death has underscored the impact she had on those who knew her and on the broader golf community that followed her story through Knapp’s rise and their shared experiences around the tour.
As the golf world processes this news, there is a clear emphasis on respecting the family’s privacy and honoring Makena White’s memory. Knapp’s first public comments acknowledge the loss and the need to grieve privately while the sport carries forward with a renewed sense of reflection about the people who support its players off the course.