Who is Makena White Boyfriend? Jake Knapp’s Girlfriend Dies Suddenly at 28

The golfing world is mourning the shocking death of Makena White, the girlfriend of PGA Tour golfer Jake Knapp. She passed away suddenly on September 26, 2025, at the age of just 28. Her last Instagram post was a touching tribute to Jake, where she openly declared her love for him. The heartbreaking news came in the same week as the Ryder Cup, leaving the golf community in grief.

CBS Sports reporter Amanda Balionis shared her sadness on Instagram, writing: “Getting to know Makena was one of my favorite parts of this last year … I will miss her light.”

Early Life and Family

Makena White was originally from Ottawa, Canada. She was raised in a close-knit family and had a strong bond with her late mother, who passed away in 2022 after treatment at the Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic.

Her father and other family members have not spoken publicly since her sudden passing, but friends say she was deeply loved by them. Makena also adored her two dogs, Nelly and Fergie, who were part of her everyday life.

Education and Career

Makena was an ambitious and hardworking woman. She graduated from McMaster University in 2019 with dual degrees in communications and software engineering. After her studies, she began working in surgical sales, where she was well-regarded for her professionalism and compassion.

Friends and colleagues described her as someone with “a huge heart overflowing with love” who always spread positivity wherever she went.

Love Story with Jake Knapp

Makena started dating Jake Knapp in August 2023. At first, they kept their relationship private. In early 2024, their romance became public when Jake won his first PGA Tour title at the Mexico Open. The couple’s emotional hug on the 18th green quickly went viral, making them a beloved pair in the golf world.

Makena often supported Jake at tournaments. She was by his side when he made history with a bogey-free 59 at the 2025 Cognizant Classic. Their love was evident both on and off the course, with Makena sharing proud moments of his success on social media.

Her Last Instagram Post

On August 11, 2025, Makena made what would become her final Instagram post. She shared photos with Jake after his tournament appearance at the FedEx St. Jude Championship.

Her caption read: “Year 2 of first fairway hugs and watching you live out your dreams. Second season in the books. Forever grateful to be on this walk with you. Here’s to many, many more to come. I looooove you, sweet boy, you make it so dang easy to be proud.”

This heartfelt message has now become a lasting reminder of her love and devotion.

Sudden Passing and Tributes

Makena’s death was confirmed by a close friend on September 26, 2025. The cause of her passing has not yet been revealed. In her memory, loved ones requested donations to the Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic and the Griffin Bell Endowment Fund.

Tributes poured in from friends, family, and the golf community. Many remembered her kindness, warmth, and bright spirit.

Jake Knapp has not competed since August 10, 2025, and is believed to be taking time away to grieve the devastating loss.