Makena White, the girlfriend of PGA Tour pro Jake Knapp, has died aged just 28 her friends and family said in a social media statement on the opening day of the Ryder Cup
Golf start Jake Knapp has released a heartbreaking statement after his girlfriend died just before the Ryder Cup began.
Makena White’s life was tragically cut short on the eve of the prestigious tournament, according to her family. Details about the circumstances or location of White’s death have not been disclosed.
Jake has now said in a statement: “Makena was such a thoughtful person whose selflessness toward others is something I will always appreciate.
“We shared so many unforgettable memories together and now that she’s no longer with us, it’s a tough reality to comprehend. She had an incredible family, great friends, and her fun, outgoing energy will be missed by all of us.
“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.”
The golfing world was plunged into grief on the opening day of the Ryder Cup following news that PGA Tour professional Jake had lost his partner.
A heartfelt social media tribute stated: “Hi everyone – this is Makena’s friend, writing with the heaviest heart to share that Makena passed away earlier this week.
“She is already so deeply missed by her Dad, her family, her friends, and of course by Nelly and Fergie. Makena was one of a kind. She had this rare way of making you feel special, and her huge heart was always overflowing with 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.
“If you would like to honour Makena’s memory, donations to the Bruyère Brain Health and Memory Clinic or the Griffin Bell Endowment Fund would mean a lot. We love you Mak. We’ll miss you always, and we’ll be looking for you in the sunset.”, reports
The Ontario native completed her studies in communications and software engineering at McMaster University in 2019 and pursued a career in surgical sales, specialising in equipment for vascular and cardiac procedures.
The passionate sports enthusiast captured hearts last year when Knapp claimed victory at the Mexico Open, with the couple sharing an emotional embrace on the 18th green. She branded her boyfriend “so dramatic” after his initial putt to secure victory fell heartbreakingly short of the cup, but her face lit up when he rolled the ball home to clinch the Open and the couple embraced to mark his maiden PGA Tour triumph.
Makena previously revealed she was a talented golfer during her childhood, but her enthusiasm for the game waned during her teenage years. She rekindled her love for the sport, though, after meeting Knapp and falling head over heels.
Knapp became a professional in 2016, competing on PGA Tour Canada from 2016-2019 and returning in 2022. He also featured on the Korn Ferry Tour in 2020, 2021, and 2023.
He secured his PGA Tour card in 2024 – claiming his debut victory on the circuit in just his fifth appearance.
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