Makena White, girlfriend of PGA golfer Jake Knapp, has died at 28 — no confirmed cause yet. Knapp breaks silence, tributes pour in, and memories shared. Full Golf family mourn in her tragic incident in such a small age.
Makena White Death Context
Makena White, aged 28, was the girlfriend of rising PGA Tour player Jake Knapp. Her death was publicly announced on September 26, 2025 via a heartfelt post by a close friend on her Instagram account.
According to the announcement, she passed away “earlier this week,” though no cause of death has been disclosed by family or representatives.
Her friend’s tribute described her as “one of a kind,” with a “huge heart” and a “rare way of making you feel special.”
Shortly afterward, Knapp broke his silence, calling her loss “a tough reality to comprehend,” and praising her thoughtfulness, selflessness, and the unforgettable memories they shared.
They had publicly been in a relationship since 2023, and had shared meaningful moments through his golfing journey, including her presence in his celebrations.
Because the cause of death remains unconfirmed, speculation or unverified claims should be avoided in respectful reporting.
What Is Known: Timeline & Public Statements
Announcement
- The announcement came via a friend’s Instagram post on September 26, 2025.
- That post asked for privacy and mentioned her father, family, friends, and her two dogs — Nelly and Fergie.
- The post also encouraged donations in her honor to the Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic or the Griffin Bell Endowment Fund, tied to family experiences with Alzheimer’s (her late mother had been affected).
Knapp’s Response
- Knapp issued a statement describing her as “thoughtful,” “selfless,” and someone whose “fun, outgoing energy will be missed.”
- He said he and Makena shared “so many unforgettable memories” and that “it’s a tough reality to comprehend.”
- Their relationship had deep public moments — her encouragement, presence at tournaments, social media tributes. (The Economic Times)
Last public message
- Makena’s final Instagram post (Aug 11, 2025) included a tribute pairing their “first fairway hugs & watching you live out your dreams,” with her saying “I looooove you sweet boy.”
- That post is widely referenced in tributes as having taken on poignancy in retrospect. (SI)
[Note: Images are collected from Instagram]
The Unknown: Cause of Death & Privacy Considerations
As of now, no official cause of death has been released. The family and Knapp’s team appear to be keeping that information private, and no medical examiner or autopsy report has been publicly cited.
Because this is a recent and sensitive matter:
- Reputable news outlets like People and E! News note the absence of confirmed cause.
- It is ethically prudent to refrain from speculation or rumor in your public writing.
- Instead, focus on confirmed facts, tributes, and the broader context of grief and remembrance.
Golfer Jake Knapp’s girlfriend, Makena White, dead at 28 https://t.co/81kXqrR1Xy
— FOX8 WGHP (@myfox8) September 27, 2025
Personal & Community Impact
To Jake Knapp
- Makena had been his close companion and visible supporter. Knapp’s statement underscores how deeply personal this loss is.
- Her public presence during his golfing successes (e.g. reacting to his Mexico Open win) made her part of his narrative.
To the golf world
- Tributes have poured in from fans, fellow players, commentators and golf media, remembering Makena’s warmth and positive energy. (The Times of India)
- She became known within golf circles as someone behind the scenes who supported and cheered for the sport, especially when accompanying Knapp to events.
To causes she cared about
- Her memory is being tied to donations to the Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic and the Griffin Bell Endowment Fund, both cited in the announcement. (People.com)
- The Bruyère Clinic connection also links to her mother’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis and treatment, making this more than symbolic.