Jake Knapp breaks silence on girlfriend's death at 28 in heartbreaking message

American golf star Jake Knapp has paid tribute to his "selfless" and "thoughtful" late girlfriend Makena White, after announcing her tragic death at the age of 28. Knapp, a PGA Tour star, shared his message after the news was confirmed through her Instagram, with the cause of death and details still unknown.

Knapp, 31, had been dating white since August 2023 and made their relationship public in February 2024, when Knapp claimed his first PGA Tour win at the Mexico Open. Her death was announced on her social media page and hours later, Knapp spoke of her and how White's passing is "a tough reality to comprehend."

He said: "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."

White is an Ottowa, Canada, native and attended McMaster University where she graduated from in 2019 with degrees in communications and software engineering. She had a career in surgical sales and provided equipment for surgeons.

On White's Instagram page, a friend announced her death by writing: "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 [her dogs] 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 Bruyere Brain Health & Memory Clinic or the Griffin Bell Endowment Fund would mean a lot."