American golfer Jake Knapp breaks silence after girlfriend Makena White’s death at 28

American golfer Jake Knapp has broken his silence after the sudden death of his girlfriend, Makena White, aged 28.

This week, on the opening day of the Ryder Cup in New York, it was announced White has died. Knapp had been dating the model since August 2023.

No official cause of death has been provided.

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“Makena was such a thoughtful person whose selflessness toward others is something I will always appreciate,” the PGA golfer told US Daily Mail on Friday.

“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.”

The pair were a sporting glamour couple, having gone public after he picked-up his first PGA Tour win at the Mexico Open in early 2024.

She was a Canadian, with a software engineering degree, graduating from McMaster University in 2019.

American golfer Jake Knapp has broken his silence after the death of his girlfriend Makena White, 28, was confirmed. Credit: Instagram“Makena was such a thoughtful person whose selflessness toward others is something I will always appreciate,” the PGA golfer told US Daily Mail on Friday.  Credit: Instagram

Makena’s death was announced via Instagram, in a post authored by her friend.

“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.”

The tribute went on to celebrate how deeply she was loved.

“‘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.”

Tributes were left underneath the post.

Tributes poured in for Makena from friends and family, after her death was announced on Instagram. Credit: Instagram

“Getting to know Makena was one of my favourite parts of last year. So much laughter, passion, and she never met a stranger. I will miss her light … it touched so many,” one person wrote.

“So beautiful and sweet inside and out, you’ll be missed. Prayers,” another added.

“I will never forget the day I met this gorgeous, vivacious girl. The day her and my daughter became roomates and started what Mak called their eight-month sleepover.

“I adored her from the first meeting. We are blessed to have shared in your light and love. You will be missed beyond measure.”