The sudden death of Makena White, 28, girlfriend of PGA Tour golfer Jake Knapp, has cast a shadow across the golf community and raised questions that remain unanswered as her family grieves in private. White’s passing was confirmed earlier this week through an emotional Instagram tribute post from a close friend. As of publication, no official cause of death has been disclosed.
A Promising Career and Academic Foundation
Originally from Ottawa, Canada, White built a successful career in the medical technology sector after graduating from McMaster University in 2019. She earned dual degrees in communications and software engineering, and colleagues described her as intelligent, dedicated, and highly professional. Her achievements painted the picture of a driven young woman with a promising future.
Relationship in the Golf Spotlight
White’s relationship with Knapp came to wider attention in February 2024, after his victory at the Mexico Open. Their embrace on the 18th green became a viral moment that introduced her to golf fans worldwide. She was often seen supporting him at tournaments, including Knapp’s bogey-free 59 at the 2025 Cognizant Classic, a rare feat in PGA Tour history.
Just weeks before her death, White posted a heartfelt Instagram tribute to Knapp on August 11, 2025, recalling their “first fairway hugs” and writing, “I looooove you sweet boy, you make it so dang easy to be proud.” That post would be her final public message.
Past Health Disclosures
White had previously been candid about her health challenges. In June 2025, while attending the RBC Canadian Open, she revealed she was preparing for “two cardiac and one vascular surgery” and had spoken in the past about living with tachycardia, a condition involving abnormally fast heartbeats.
While those disclosures have been widely noted in media coverage, outlets including the Associated Press stress that no official cause of death has been released and any connection remains unconfirmed.
Family Tragedy and Legacy of Care
White’s dedication to health-related causes was deeply personal. Her mother, Crystal, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2018 following two minor strokes and received care at the Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic in Ottawa. Crystal White passed away in April 2022, an event that profoundly shaped Makena’s life.
In her memory, friends and family have encouraged donations to the Bruyère clinic and the Griffin Bell Endowment Fund, which supports cancer-related causes.
Golf World Responds
News of White’s death broke just as the Ryder Cup began, prompting an outpouring of condolences across the sport. Knapp, who is not competing in the event, issued a public statement on Friday describing White as “thoughtful and selfless.” He added: “We shared so many unforgettable memories together, and now that she’s no longer with us, it’s a difficult reality to grasp.”
The announcement post that first shared news of her passing captured her impact: “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.”
Remembering Her Spirit
As the golf community reflects on White’s life, tributes highlight her generosity, her professional drive, and her enduring support for Knapp’s career. While her cause of death remains undisclosed, her legacy continues through the charitable causes she championed and the memories shared by those closest to her.
