Makena White, the 28-year-old girlfriend of top US golfer Jake Knapp, tragically passed away earlier this week, with the devastating news announced by a close friend on social media. Her death, which occurred under mysterious circumstances, comes as the Ryder Cup began, adding a somber note to the golfing world.

Just six weeks prior to her passing, Makena had sent a deeply heartfelt message to Knapp on Instagram, which would become her final post. She celebrated their bond, writing: "Year 2 of first fairway hugs & watching you live out your dreams. 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." This message reflected the strong and loving nature of their two-year relationship, which they had made public after Knapp secured his first PGA Tour win at the Mexico Open.

The announcement of her death was made by a friend who took over her Instagram account, sharing a message with a "heaviest heart." The post conveyed that Makena is "already so deeply missed by her Dad, her family, her friends, and of course by Nelly and Fergie." Describing her unique character, the friend wrote: "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." The message also encouraged donations to the Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic or the Griffin Bell Endowment Fund in her memory, concluding with "We love you Mak. We’ll miss you always, and we’ll be looking for you in the sunset."

Tributes quickly poured in from across the golfing community. CBS Sports course reporter Amanda Balionis shared her admiration, stating: "Getting to know Makena was one of my favorite parts of this last year. So much laughter, passion and she never met a stranger. I will miss her light… it touched so many." Golf writer and podcaster Dan Rapoport added simply, "What a light she was."

Makena White, a native of Ottawa, Ontario, was a distinguished individual beyond her relationship with Knapp. She graduated from McMaster University in 2019 with degrees in communications and software engineering. Her professional career saw her working in surgical sales, primarily providing equipment to vascular and cardiac surgeons. An avid sports fan, she passionately supported her hometown hockey team, the Ottawa Senators, and rediscovered her love for golf after falling for Knapp.

Jake Knapp, currently ranked 80th in the world, went professional in 2016. Before achieving PGA Tour success, he spent three years playing on the PGA Tour Canada and participated in the Korn Ferry Tour in 2020, 2021, and 2023. To fund his burgeoning golf career, Knapp notably worked as a bouncer at a restaurant and nightclub in Costa Mesa, California, from 2021 to 2022.