PGA Tour golfer Jake Knapp has been mourning the loss of his girlfriend, Makena White, who died in September 2025 at the age of 28. Their relationship had been a familiar sight at tournaments for more than two years, and the news of her passing was met with an outpouring of support from the golf community.
Here is what is publicly known about their relationship and how fans and well wishers can honor her memory.
Who Was Makena White
Makena White was originally from Canada. She was known among friends for her warmth, her sense of humor, and her close bond with her family, including her father and her two dogs, Nelly and Fergie.
White’s mother, Crystal, passed away in April 2022 after a battle with Alzheimer’s disease. White had spoken openly about her mother’s story in the past, which is part of why her memorial fund requests are tied to Alzheimer’s and dementia research.
How Jake Knapp and Makena White’s Relationship Began
According to an NBC broadcast from the time, Knapp and White began dating in August 2023. Their relationship became public the following year, when Knapp earned his first PGA Tour victory at the 2024 Mexico Open.
Cameras captured White’s reaction as Knapp lined up his final putt, and she rushed onto the green to celebrate with him once the win was confirmed. From that point on, she was a regular presence at his tournaments, including during his standout round of 59 at the 2025 Cognizant Classic.
In August 2025, White shared a tribute post marking their second year together, writing about watching Knapp live out his dreams on tour. It would be one of her last public posts before her death.
Makena White’s Passing
On September 26, 2025, a friend of White’s shared the news of her death in a post on her Instagram account. The post did not disclose a cause of death, and Knapp has respected that same privacy in his own public comments.
In a statement shared through his manager, Knapp described how difficult the loss has been for everyone who knew her, and asked for privacy and respect for her family and friends during this time. He later added, in a separate statement, that her selflessness and her warmth toward others are things he will always appreciate.
What Fans Can Do to Honor Her Memory
White’s family has asked that anyone wishing to honor her memory consider a donation rather than flowers or other gestures. Two organizations were named in the announcement of her passing:
- The Bruyère Brain Health and Memory Clinic, a Canadian center focused on cognitive impairment, dementia, and Alzheimer’s care
- The Griffin Bell Endowment Fund
Both causes connect back to White’s own family history with Alzheimer’s disease, making them a meaningful way for supporters to honor her legacy.
A Private Person in a Public Moment
It is worth remembering that Makena White was not a public figure by choice. She became known to golf fans because of her relationship with Jake Knapp, not because she sought a public platform of her own. Her family’s request for privacy reflects that, and it is a request worth respecting even as her story understandably draws attention.
Final Thoughts
Jake Knapp and Makena White shared more than two years together, much of it spent on golf courses around the world as she supported his rise on the PGA Tour. Her passing at just 28 years old has left a mark on the golf community that extends well beyond the sport itself.
For those who want to honor her memory, a donation to either the Bruyère Brain Health and Memory Clinic or the Griffin Bell Endowment Fund is the most meaningful way to do so, in keeping with her family’s wishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Jake Knapp’s girlfriend?
Jake Knapp’s girlfriend was Makena White, a Canadian woman who supported his career on the PGA Tour for more than two years before her death in September 2025.
When did Jake Knapp and Makena White start dating?
The couple began dating in August 2023, and their relationship became publicly known in February 2024 after Knapp’s win at the Mexico Open.
How did Makena White die?
Her cause of death has not been publicly disclosed, and her family has asked for privacy on the matter.
How can people honor Makena White’s memory?
Her family has asked that donations be made to the Bruyère Brain Health and Memory Clinic or the Griffin Bell Endowment Fund in lieu of other gestures.
Did Makena White have a connection to Alzheimer’s research?
Yes. Her mother passed away from complications of Alzheimer’s disease in 2022, which is part of why the requested memorial donations support dementia and brain health causes.
