Pro golfer Jake Knapp speaks on death of girlfriend Makena White at 28

Professional golfer Jake Knapp said the death of his girlfriend Makena White, 28, is hard to process and a tough reality in a statement provided to People on Friday. Knapp, 31, described White as thoughtful and selfless and said her fun, outgoing energy will be missed by him, his family and friends.

Knapp noted that they shared unforgettable memories together and that it is a difficult reality to comprehend for everyone who knew Mak, especially her family and friends, who deserve privacy and respect during this difficult time. White’s death has not been publicly disclosed, and she was 28. White's friend revealed the loss via an Instagram post on the late medical sales representative’s account Friday, writing that Makena passed away earlier this week and that she is already so deeply missed by her dad, her family, her friends, and of course by [dogs] Nelly and Fergie.

White’s friend’s message underscored the abrupt nature of the loss while reinforcing the close circle’s wish for privacy as the family processes the news. White was described publicly as a medical sales representative, and there has been no public disclosure of a cause of death at this time.

The couple reportedly began dating in August 2023, and observers noted they appeared to be going strong this summer. White recently praised Knapp on Instagram for his golfing career, posting a message that read in part, I looooove you sweet boy, you make it so dang easy to be proud. On August 11, she shared how proud she was of the pro athlete as he finished this year’s golfing season, writing in a carousel post that Year 2 of first fairway hugs and watching you live out your dreams was in the books, and that she would be on this walk with him for many more years. The post concluded with the line, I looooove you sweet boy, you make it so dang easy to be proud.

The public record regarding White’s death remains limited, and Knapp’s representatives did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Page Six reported that she and Knapp were still going strong this summer, a detail carried in the outlet’s coverage of the couple. The story also noted that White’s Instagram activity in recent months highlighted her pride in Knapp’s pursuit of professional golf.

Makena White’s passing marks a personal tragedy that has drawn attention within the sports and celebrity communities. While the details surrounding her death are not yet available, Knapp’s public acknowledgment of the loss reflects the gravity of the moment for those who shared in their relationship. As a privacy-minded request from White’s family remains in the foreground, friends and fans are awaiting further information from official channels. The situation underscores the broader reality that public figures—even in sports—must balance their professional lives with personal hardship, and that those closest to them deserve space to grieve.