PGA star Jake Knapp's girlfriend Makena White tragically passed away

All eyes are on the 2025 Ryder Cup, but tragic news has all of the PGA Tour devastated with the news that PGAT Tour winner Jake Knapp's girlfriend has tragically passed away.

Shared on her Instagram handle by her friend, the heartbreaking news was broken that she had died.

Makena White has tragically passed away. | Makena White/Instagram

"Hi everyone - this is Makena’s friend, writing with the heaviest heart to share that Makena passed away earlier this week," the unnamed friend wrote. "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," the friend continued. "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."

Jake Knapp is congratulated by his girlfriend Makena White after shooting a course record 59 in the first round of the 2025 Cognizant Classic in the Palm Beaches at PGA National. | Jeff Romance/Palm Beach Post / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

CBS Sports golf personality Amanda Balionis commented, "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💛💛."

Makena was with Knapp, 31, earlier this year when Knapp shot a bogey-free 59 at the Cognizant Classic and when he won his lone PGA Tour event at the Mexico Open in 2024.

Makena wrote a touching note to Knapp only last month, "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 💛."

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