Makena White, the 28-year-old girlfriend of PGA Tour golfer Jake Knapp, has tragically passed away. The news was confirmed through a heartfelt message shared on White’s official Instagram account on September 26, 2025. At this time, no cause of death has been released by her family, representatives, or authorities.
Official Confirmation
The announcement stated that White “passed away earlier this week” and is deeply missed by her father, family, friends, and her beloved dogs, Nelly and Fergie. The message encouraged those wishing to honor her memory to donate to the Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic or the Griffin Bell Endowment Fund instead of sending flowers. Several U.S. news and entertainment outlets have verified the announcement and her age, emphasizing that no additional details regarding the circumstances of her passing have been disclosed.
Cause of Death Remains Private
As of publication, there has been no official statement regarding the cause of death. Media coverage has consistently urged caution, reminding the public to avoid speculation. Neither White’s family nor her representatives have connected her passing to any particular medical condition. Future updates are expected to come directly from primary sources or established news outlets, should the family choose to share further information.
Reported Health Background
White had previously mentioned experiencing tachycardia (an abnormally fast heart rate) and revealed that she had multiple procedures scheduled earlier this year two cardiac and one vascular. While these details have resurfaced in public discussion, reputable reporting stresses that no confirmed link exists between these health updates and her passing. Respectful coverage encourages readers to wait for official confirmation before drawing conclusions.
Tributes and Reactions
News of White’s death emerged just as Ryder Cup week was getting underway, drawing attention from golf fans, players, and media across the country. Tributes have poured in from friends, supporters, and members of the golf community, describing White as a warm, vibrant presence who made those around her feel valued.
About Makena White
White was originally from Canada and worked in medical device and surgical sales, a career that reflected her strong communication skills and technical expertise. Friends and colleagues have remembered her for her compassion, energy, and positive influence on those she met.
Relationship with Jake Knapp
White and Knapp’s relationship became public in 2023 and soon became a familiar part of Knapp’s journey as he rose on the PGA Tour. She was frequently seen supporting him at events, and their shared moments often resonated with fans. Since the news of her passing, messages of sympathy and encouragement for Knapp and White’s family have been widespread.
FAQs
What was Makena White’s cause of death?
As of now, the family has not disclosed a cause of death, and no official report has been released.
Did she have any prior health conditions?
White previously spoke about tachycardia and upcoming cardiac and vascular procedures, but there is no confirmed connection to her passing.
How old was she?
She was 28 years old.
Who confirmed her passing?
The news was shared by a close friend via White’s Instagram account, later confirmed by multiple reputable outlets.
How can fans honor her memory?
The family requested donations to the Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic or the Griffin Bell Endowment Fund.
