Jake Knapp breaks silence after girlfriend Makena White dies aged 28

Jake Knapp has broken his silence in an interview with Daily Mail after his girlfriend Makena White lost her life aged 28 earlier this week.

Knapp, 31, paid tribute to his girlfriend, whom he said he shared "so many unforgettable memories together."

Makena was regularly seen posting about Knapp's achievements on the PGA Tour.

She was also on the scene to congratulate him on his round of 59 in the opening round of the Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches earlier this season, which marked the 15th sub-60 score in PGA Tour history. 

Jake and Makena went public with their relationship after he captured his first PGA Tour title at the Mexico Open in February 2024.

White's death was announced on her Instagram account by an unnamed pal on 26 September.

No details about where, when or how she died were mentioned, only that she passed away earlier this week. 

"'Makena was such a thoughtful person whose selflessness toward others is something I will always appreciate," Knapp told Daily Mail.

"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."

In full, the statement from Makena's 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 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.

"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 Bruyere 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."

CBS golf reporter Amanda Balionis said of her close relationship with Makena: "Getting know Makena was one of my favourite parts of this last year.

"So much laughter, passion and she never met a stranger. I will miss her light. It touched so many."