Girlfriend of American golfer Jake Knapp died aged 28 right before Ryder Cup

The girlfriend of PGA Tour pro Jake Knapp, Makena White, has died aged 28. The pair had been dating since August 2023 before going public in 2024 after his maiden PGA Tour victory at the Mexico Open.

Knapp turned pro in 2016 and has notched one career win with four top-10 for the calendar year. However, he missed the cut to qualify for Team USA in the Ryder Cup, which got underway on Friday.

White, a Canadian native, worked in surgical sales, where she primarily provided medical equipment to vascular and cardiac surgeons. Reports have suggested that she was an avid sports fan, passionate about hockey and enjoyed a love for golf from an early age.

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In a statement posted to social media, White's friend confirmed the tragic news that she passed away this week.

It 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 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 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."

The pair have been pictured on her Instagram enjoying the scenery at North Berwick for the Genesis Scottish Open where Knapp finished tied for 22nd.

The 28-year-old proclaimed her love for the PGA tour golfer in one of her final Instagram posts.

In an emotional, and now poignant, message, she said: "Year 2 of first fairway hugs & watching you live out your dreams.

"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."