John McDougall
The girlfriend of golf star Jake Knapp sent a heartbreaking final post to her boyfriend just weeks before her sudden death.
News of the passing away of Makena White, 28, emerged on the first day of the Ryder Cup, which is being held at Bethpage Black Course on Long Island in New York.
White had been dating PGA tour golfer Knapp, 31, since 2023 after making their relationship public last year at the Mexican Open.
The news was confirmed via a message on White's Instagram account from one of her friends.
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The statement read: "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 [her dogs] 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.
"We love you Mak. We’ll miss you always, and we’ll be looking for you in the sunset."
Further details of White's cause of death have not yet emerged and Knapp himself has released an emotional statement on his girlfriend's passing away, after tributes have flooded in from the world of golf following the sad news breaking.
Knapp said in a statement: "Makena was such a thoughtful person whose selflessness toward others is something I will always appreciate. 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."
White's final post on Instagram before that of her death being announced was a warm love message to her boyfriend Knapp as she reflected on their relationship so far.
Alongside a series of pictures of her and Knapp together on a range of golf courses, the post from White read: "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."