Makena White, the girlfriend of PGA Tour player Jake Knapp, has died at the age of 28. News of White’s death has emerged on the first day of the Ryder Cup.
Earlier this year, White referred to Knapp as her “favourite person in the world”, also describing him as her “very best friend” on his birthday in late May. She attended several events this season to support her boyfriend, including the Canadian Open, Cognizant Classic, Phoenix Open and Scottish Open.
A post that appeared on her White’s Instagram account reads: “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 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 Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic or the Griffin Bell Endowment Fund would mean a lot. We love you Mak. We’ll miss you always, and we’ll be looking for you in the sunset.”
That is the first post on her account in six weeks, since 11 August. The penultimate post marked Knapp’s second season on the PGA Tour.
“Year 2 of first fairway hugs & watching you live out your dreams,” it reads. Second season in the books — forever grateful to be on this walk with you, here’s to many, many, many more! I looooove you sweet boy. You make it so dang easy to be proud.”
