Jake Knapp has broken his silence after his girlfriend Makena White died at age 28.
The professional golfer told People via a statement on Friday, September 28 that her death was a “tough reality to comprehend” as he paid tribute to his late girlfriend.
“Makena was such a thoughtful person whose selflessness toward others is something I will always appreciate,” Knapp, 31, wrote via the statement. “We shared so many unforgettable memories together and now that she’s no longer with us, it’s a tough reality to comprehend.”
He continued, “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.”
Earlier on Friday, White’s death was announced via her Instagram account by a friend posting on her behalf.
“Hi everyone — this is Makena’s friend, writing with the heaviest heart to share that Makena passed away earlier this week,” the statement read. “She is already so deeply missed by her Dad, her family, her friends, and of course by [her dogs] Nelly and Fergie.”
The post continued, “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.”
“We love you Mak,” the post concluded. “We’ll miss you always, and we’ll be looking for you in the sunset 💛.”
A cause of death was not revealed. However, donations were asked to be made in her name to the Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic or the Griffin Bell Endowment Fund.
Knapp and White had been dating since August 2023 and went public with their relationship in February.
White’s last social media post was a gushing tribute to Knapp shared in August following a successful season on the PGA Tour.
“Year 2 of first fairway hugs & watching you live out your dreams 🫶🏼,” White wrote via Instagram alongside a carousel of photos of the couple. “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 💛.”
White also praised Knapp publicly in May as she celebrated his birthday with a sweet post, calling him her “best friend.”
“No matter where our crazy adventures take us, you make every place feel like home 💛,” she wrote. “I love you sweet boy!”
In response, Knapp wrote, “Thank youuu, I love you ❤️.”
A year prior to the heartfelt post, White had commemorated Knapp’s 30th birthday with an equally touching Instagram post.
“The kindest, hardest working, most generous, handsome, talented person I’ll ever know,” White wrote via Instagram at the time. “To know you is to love you. “Here’s to 30 years of living the dream — and you’re only getting started. Happy birthday my sweet boy, you deserve the world.”
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