PGA golfer Jake Knapp issued his first public statement on Friday regarding the death of his girlfriend, Makena White.
Knapp said in a statement to People that White’s death was “a tough reality to comprehend,” and asked for privacy for her friends and family at this time.
“Makena was such a thoughtful person whose selflessness toward others is something I will always appreciate,” Knapp wrote. “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.”
One of White’s friends shared on Instagram Friday that White died earlier this week at the age of 28. No cause of death was given.
Knapp and White had been dating since August 2023, and she was frequently seen supporting him at PGA Tour events. They went public with their relationship in February 2024, following Knapp’s lone PGA Tour win at the Mexico Open. She even flew from Canada to Mexico just to be there for the final round of the tournament.
From one side of the continent to the other 🇨🇦🇲🇽@KnappTime_LTD's girlfriend flew from Canada to Mexico for his final round @MexicoOpenGolf. pic.twitter.com/cpt3VGIDnT
— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) February 26, 2024
Knapp turned pro in 2016. In February, he shot a 59 in the opening round of the Cognizant Classic, giving him 15th sub-60 round in PGA Tour history.
