Unknown Facts About Jake Knapp’s Girlfriend Makena White

Fans of professional golfer Jake Knapp were left heartbroken after learning that his longtime girlfriend, Makena White, died suddenly at the age of 28 in September 2025. Her passing shocked the golf world and beyond, as friends and colleagues shared emotional tributes online. This article highlights unknown facts about Makena White and her life with Jake Knapp.

The news of Makena’s death was first shared by a close friend on Instagram, confirming that the young Canadian had passed away earlier that week. The post described Makena as “one of a kind,” with an extraordinary ability to make people feel special. Her passing came just before one of the biggest events of Jake’s golf career, adding to the emotional weight of the loss.

Makena White’s Life, Career, and Relationship With Jake Knapp

Makena White was born and raised in Ottawa, Canada. She studied communications and software engineering at McMaster University, showcasing both her creativity and technical skills. According to multiple outlets, including Daily Mail, she pursued a career in the medical field and worked in surgical sales, providing equipment to vascular and cardiac surgeons.

Makena was also a devoted sports fan, particularly passionate about hockey. As an Ottawa native, she proudly supported the Ottawa Senators and often shared her love for the team on social media. Her diverse interests—from sports to technology—made her a vibrant personality among her friends and loved ones.

Makena and Jake Knapp began dating in 2023 and quietly built their relationship before going public a year later. In March 2024, Makena posted a playful “hard launch” of their relationship on Instagram, writing, “Does it still count as a hard launch if NBC saw it first?” Fans loved seeing the couple together at tournaments and off the course.

Despite her private nature, Makena became a beloved figure in the golf community. CBS Sports reporter Amanda Balionis paid tribute on Instagram, saying, “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.”

While the exact cause of Makena’s death has not been publicly disclosed, her family and friends asked for donations in her memory to two meaningful causes: the Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic and the Griffin Bell Endowment Fund. The Ottawa-based Bruyère Clinic specializes in dementia and Alzheimer’s care, while the Griffin Bell Fund supports cancer research, honoring a young boy who died of neuroblastoma in 2024.

How Fans and the Golf World Are Mourning Makena White

Makena’s passing has sparked an outpouring of grief from the golf community and beyond. Jake Knapp, though private about his personal life, has received support from fellow golfers and fans worldwide. The emotional tributes on social media reflect the deep connections Makena formed throughout her life.

Her friends described her as adventurous, compassionate, and full of joy. They highlighted her love for travel and her ability to bring people together, even across different worlds of sports and medicine. For many, Makena’s story is a reminder of how one person’s kindness and energy can leave a lasting impact.

Makena White’s life, though tragically short, touched countless hearts. Remembering the unknown facts about Jake Knapp’s girlfriend helps keep her legacy alive and honors the love she shared with those around her.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Who was Makena White?

Makena White was a 28-year-old Canadian who worked in surgical sales and was the longtime girlfriend of golfer Jake Knapp.

Q2: Where was Makena White from?

Makena was from Ottawa, Canada, where she studied and later built her career.

Q3: How did Makena White and Jake Knapp meet?

They began dating in 2023 and went public with their relationship in March 2024.

Q4: What caused Makena White’s death?

The cause of her death has not been publicly disclosed. Her family requested donations to brain health and cancer research charities in her memory.

Q5: How did the golf world react?

Golf reporters, fans, and fellow players expressed sadness and shared heartfelt tributes honoring her life and impact.