In her final Instagram post, Makena White wrote a heartfelt message for her boyfriend, PGA Tour winner Jake Knapp, just weeks before her death at 28 years old.

White, who was dating Knapp for two years, posted a tribute to their relationship back in August.

Jake Knapp himself has not yet spoken publicly about White’s passing, though sources close to him suggest he is devastated by the news. Coming at a time when his professional career is soaring, the emotional blow of losing someone who so openly expressed her pride and admiration for him may prove to be one of the toughest moments of his personal journey. Fans have rallied around him, sending messages of support and prayers as he navigates this painful chapter.

The story has also sparked a broader conversation about mental health and the hidden battles people face. While details surrounding White’s cause of death have not been publicly released, her final Instagram message has raised concern about the weight of her emotions and the possibility that she was struggling silently. Advocates have called for her memory to serve as a reminder of the importance of compassion, communication, and breaking the stigma around seeking help during difficult times.

“Year 2 of first fairway hugs & watching you live out your dreams,” White wrote on Aug. 11. “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.”

Jake Knapp, of the United States, and his girlfriend Makena White pose with his trophy during the award ceremony after winning the Mexico Open golf tournament in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, Sunday, Feb. 25, 2024.AP
A friend of White announced her death, which happened earlier this week.

“Hi everyone – this is Makena’s friend, writing with the heaviest heart to share that Makena passed away earlier this week,” the post on Friday read. “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.”

Makena White was 28 years old.Makena White/Instagram
The cause of White’s death is still unknown.

Sympathy for White was shared in the comments section of her final post, with golf insider Dan Rapaport writing, “What a light she was.”

“Getting to know Makena was one of my favorite parts of this last year,” CBS gold reporter Amanda Balionis commented. “So much laughter, passion and she never met a stranger. I will miss her light… it touched so many.”

Jake Knapp, left, with Makena White seen after the 3rd round of the Cognizant Classic on March 1, 2025, at PGA National Resort & Spa in West Palm Beach, FL.Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
Knapp and White went public with their relationship following the 31-year-old’s win at the Mexico Open last year.

The golf world has been left heartbroken following the sudden passing of Makena White at just 28 years old. The news has sparked an outpouring of grief from fans, players, and fellow athletes, but it was her haunting final Instagram post that has shaken the sports community to its core. Hours before her death, White shared an emotional message dedicated to PGA Tour champion Jake Knapp, writing, “Tell Jake I’ll always be proud…” The message has gone viral, leaving many in tears and raising questions about the story behind her tragic final words.

White was no stranger to the golf community, having built friendships across both the PGA and LPGA tours. Known for her radiant energy and her passion for the sport, she was often seen supporting players at events and sharing encouraging words with rising stars. To those who knew her personally, she was more than just a friend — she was a source of positivity, someone who lit up every room she entered. Her sudden death at such a young age has left a deep void in the hearts of many.

The connection between Makena White and Jake Knapp has now become the center of public attention. Knapp, who captured his first PGA Tour victory earlier this year, was experiencing the heights of his career. White’s post, referencing her pride in him, paints a picture of someone who carried admiration and unwavering support for the golfer. Whether their relationship was that of close friends, confidants, or something deeper, her words struck a chord with Knapp’s supporters and the wider golfing community, as they revealed a bond rooted in pride, care, and affection.

In the hours after her death was confirmed, tributes began to flood social media. Friends remembered White as compassionate and kind-hearted, with many describing her as someone who always put others before herself. Players and fans alike shared screenshots of her final Instagram story, interpreting it as both a farewell and a reminder of how much she valued those around her. “She was always cheering for Jake,” one fan wrote. “Even in her last words, she was thinking about someone else’s success instead of her own struggles.”

Golf, a sport often seen as individualistic, has shown its collective heart in the wake of this tragedy. Both PGA and LPGA players have taken moments to dedicate their performances to White, with some even wearing black ribbons in her memory. Fans at recent tournaments have held up signs bearing her name, honoring her legacy as someone who loved the game and supported its athletes unconditionally. The community’s unity in mourning reflects the deep impact she had despite never competing on the professional stage herself.

What has struck many most deeply is the poignancy of White’s last words. “Tell Jake I’ll always be proud…” resonates beyond just Knapp and extends to anyone who has ever needed reassurance that they matter, that they’ve made someone proud, and that their presence has left a mark on the lives of others. For many, her message has become a bittersweet reminder to cherish the people in their lives and to express gratitude before it is too late.

As her family prepares to lay her to rest, tributes continue to pour in from across the sports world. Memorial posts on Instagram and Twitter feature pictures of White smiling, traveling, and supporting her favorite players, with hashtags like #ForeverMakena and #ProudForJake trending among golf fans. Her story has transcended golf, touching people far outside the sport who recognize the universal pain of losing someone young, vibrant, and full of potential.

Makena White’s sudden passing at 28 is a reminder of life’s fragility, but her final Instagram message ensures her memory will live on. She will be remembered as a beacon of light who carried pride for those she loved, even in her final hours. For Jake Knapp, the golfing world, and all who were touched by her spirit, the words “I’ll always be proud” will echo long after the grief begins to heal. Her legacy is one of unconditional support, love, and a call to check in on those who may need it most — even when they seem to be the strongest in the room.