Featured Image Credit: Instagram/Makenawhite91
Topics: Golf
Nasir Jabbar
Jake Knapp has paid an emotional tribute to his girlfriend Makena White following her sudden death.
The tragic news was announced on White's Instagram account on the opening day of the 2025 Ryder Cup.
A 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.
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"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."
Details on the cause of death have not yet been revealed, with White passing away at the age of 28.
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Tributes have poured in for White, who graduated with degrees in communications and software engineering in 2019 from McMaster University.
She worked in surgical sales, primarily providing equipment to vascular and cardiac surgeons.
Knapp, who did not qualify for the Ryder Cup, has since issued a heartfelt statement in the wake of White's death, highlighting her 'selflessness'.
"Makena was such a thoughtful person whose selflessness toward others is something I will always appreciate," said the PGA Tour golfer, who is ranked 80th in the world.
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"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."
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Knapp and White went public with their relationship after the American golf star got his first PGA Tour win last year at the Mexico Open.
They had been dating since August 2023.