Jake Knapp’s rise on the PGA Tour has brought both excitement and challenges, especially for his girlfriend, Makena White. Since his emergence on golf’s biggest stage, White has experienced increased public attention and awkward moments, highlighting the downsides of being linked to a professional athlete.
Knapp, who turned professional in 2016 after playing college golf at UCLA, did not achieve immediate success. He persevered through three separate periods on the Korn Ferry Tour before securing his PGA Tour card starting in 2024. His breakthrough on the premier tour came during his rookie season when he won the Mexico Open, marking his first PGA Tour victory.
Jake Knapp’s Journey to the PGA Tour Spotlight
At 31 years old, Knapp’s story is one of determination. Despite a late start, he has accumulated more than $6 million in career earnings. One of his most remarkable feats was shooting a 59 at the Cognizant Classic earlier this year, narrowly missing an eagle putt that would have tied Jim Furyk’s record for the lowest round ever on the PGA Tour.
Throughout these achievements, White has accompanied him, sharing in both his victories and the unexpected public exposure that followed. Her experience illustrates the personal impact behind the scenes of professional sports stardom.
Makena White’s Experience Navigating Public Exposure
Originally from Ottawa, Makena White began dating Jake Knapp in the summer of 2023. For months, they managed to keep their relationship private, but Knapp’s win at the Mexico Open brought their connection into the public eye. White spoke openly about how their relationship was revealed unexpectedly:
My (previously very private) relationship was hard launched on national television at the 2024 Mexico Open. A year later I got outed playing hooky from work on a Thursday cause that same bf shot 59 & photos of us cellying were all over the internet. 2 years of getting sewered https://t.co/4WECpVvXrr
— Makena (@makenawhite) July 28, 2025
This statement reflects the complicated feelings White has experienced as the spotlight shifted onto her alongside Knapp’s rising profile.
Balancing Career and Support Roles Amid PGA Tour Success
Despite the public scrutiny, White continues her professional work as a Vascular & Cardiac Surgery Liaison for a biologic implants company based in Canada. She reportedly took time off work to attend the Cognizant Classic, where Knapp made history by becoming only the 15th golfer to record a sub-60 round on the PGA Tour. This moment further intensified the spotlight on both of them.
Her employer appears to have been understanding of her circumstances, as she maintained her role while managing the newfound public attention. White’s experience highlights the challenges faced by partners of athletes who must juggle normal careers while supporting their high-profile significant others.
The Lasting Impact of Jake Knapp’s PGA Tour Achievements
Jake Knapp’s accomplishments on the PGA Tour continue to elevate his career, but they also carry personal consequences for those closest to him. As his success grows, White’s situation exemplifies the complexities behind the glamour—where public recognition often comes with personal discomfort and exposure.
Looking ahead, as Knapp competes among the world’s top golfers, White’s experience may resonate with many partners of athletes navigating similar pressures. Their story sheds light on the less visible side of sports fame, revealing the emotional and professional balancing act that accompanies athletic success.