Jacob Richard Knapp is a professional American golfer on the PGA Tour. He turned professional in 2016 and spent several years competing on the PGA Tour Canada and Korn Ferry Tour before earning his PGA Tour card.
In February 2024, at age 29, Knapp won his first PGA Tour event at the Mexico Open, becoming just the third rookie to win on Tour that season.
You can follow Jake Knapp’s net worth, prize money, career details, earnings, endorsements, personal details, girlfriend, career stats, and more here.
Jake Knapp’s Biography
| Detail | Information |
| Full Name | Jake Knapp |
| Nickname | – |
| Birth Date | August 12, 1994 (Age 29) |
| Height | 6’1″ (1.85 m) |
| Weight | 185 lbs (84 kg) |
| Birthplace | Costa Mesa, California, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Current Net Worth | $4 million |
| College | University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) |
| Turned Professional | 2016 |
| Relationship Status | Dating |
| Girlfriend | Emily Davis |
| Instagram Profile | @jakeknappgolf |
Early Career
Jake Knapp, born on May 31, 1994, in Costa Mesa, California, grew up immersed in the laid-back lifestyle of Southern California. Influenced by the vibrant surf culture and a family connection to golf, Knapp’s early years were shaped by his passion for sports and outdoor activities.
His older brother, Ryan, was also a golfer, which further inspired Jake to pursue the sport. He attended Estancia High School, where he played four years of varsity golf and achieved notable success, including winning the 2012 CIF Individual Sectional Championship with a score of 66 (-6).
Knapp’s dedication to golf continued at UCLA, where he played for the men’s golf team while majoring in history. His college years were marked by significant achievements in amateur golf. In 2015, he qualified for the U.S. Open as an amateur, a testament to his growing talent and commitment to the game.
That same year, he advanced to the semifinals of the Western Amateur and made deep runs in other prestigious tournaments such as the U.S. Amateur and California Amateur.
Jake’s formative years were defined by his relentless pursuit of excellence in golf. His early experiences not only showcased his potential but also laid the foundation for a professional career that would begin in 2016.
Professional Career
Jake Knapp’s professional golf career has been a story of perseverance, breakthroughs, and remarkable achievements. After turning professional in 2016, Knapp began his journey on the PGA Tour Canada circuit, where he secured three victories between 2016 and 2022.
Despite these early successes, his path to the PGA Tour was far from straightforward. He spent several seasons on the Korn Ferry Tour, with his persistence paying off in 2023 when he finished 13th on the points list, earning him a PGA Tour card for the 2024 season.
Knapp’s breakthrough moment came in February 2024 when he won his first PGA Tour event at the Mexico Open. This victory was particularly extraordinary because he managed to win despite hitting only two fairways in the final round—a feat not accomplished by a PGA Tour champion since 1983.
The win not only solidified his status as a rising star but also brought him $1.45 million in earnings for that year, contributing significantly to his financial success.
In 2025, Knapp achieved another career milestone by shooting a historic round of 59 at the Cognizant Classic, becoming the 15th player in PGA Tour history to achieve a sub-60 score. This bogey-free round included 12 birdies and showcased his precision and composure under pressure. His performance at this event further cemented his reputation as one of the most talented players on the tour.
Knapp’s career trajectory has also been bolstered by endorsements, including a partnership with PXG, which has raised his profile in the golf community. As of early 2025, his total PGA Tour earnings have exceeded $3.6 million, reflecting his rapid rise from financial struggles to becoming one of the sport’s prominent figures. With consistent performances and a growing legacy, Jake Knapp continues to establish himself as a significant force in professional golf.
Girlfriend
Jake Knapp is in a committed relationship with his girlfriend, Makena White. The couple has been dating since at least August 2023, though they have kept the details of their relationship private.
Makena, a Canadian native from Ottawa, shares Jake’s passion for sports and has been a supportive presence at his tournaments, including his historic victories such as the 2024 Mexico Open and his record-breaking round of 59 at the 2025 Cognizant Classic.
Makena graduated from McMaster University in 2019 with a degree in communications and software engineering. She currently works as a vascular surgery sales representative for LeMaitre.
Despite her professional commitments, she frequently travels to support Jake at his events and shares her pride in his accomplishments on social media. Known for her love of hockey and golf, Makena’s enthusiasm for sports complements Jake’s career, making her an integral part of his journey.
Jake Knapp’s Net Worth Details
Jake Knapp’s net worth is estimated to be $4 million as of 2025.
Career Earnings
| Year | Tour | Earnings | Notable Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2016–2022 | PGA Tour Canada | Not disclosed | Secured 3 victories on the PGA Tour Canada |
| 2023 | Korn Ferry Tour | Not disclosed | Finished 13th on points list, earned PGA Tour card |
| 2024 | PGA Tour | $2,558,973 | Won Mexico Open ($1.45M) |
| 2025 (YTD) | PGA Tour | $559,698 | Shot 59 at Cognizant Classic |
| Total (PGA) | $3,677,671 |
Endorsements
Jake Knapp has secured several notable endorsement deals that have significantly boosted his profile and financial standing. One of his most prominent partnerships is with PXG, a leading golf equipment manufacturer.
This collaboration has not only provided him with high-quality gear but also elevated his visibility within the golf community, aligning him with a prestigious brand known for innovation and performance.
In 2024, Knapp also entered into a unique sponsorship agreement with the Anaheim Ducks, an NHL team. This partnership stemmed from a round of golf with the team’s CEO, Tim Ryan, and led to the Ducks’ logo being prominently displayed on Knapp’s apparel during tournaments. This collaboration extended the Ducks’ brand into the golf world while enhancing Knapp’s marketability.
Additionally, Knapp partnered with Madison Capital Group Holdings (MCGH) in a multiyear sponsorship deal in 2024. MCGH’s logo now appears on his clothing during competitions, showcasing their support for his career and aligning their brand with his rising success.
In early 2025, Knapp teamed up with Melin, a Southern California-based headwear brand known for blending performance and style. This partnership reflects Knapp’s laid-back yet competitive persona and marks Melin’s entry into the golf market. Together, they aim to create innovative and stylish headwear tailored for golfers.
Career Stats
Career Wins
| Tour | Wins | Notable Victories |
|---|---|---|
| PGA Tour | 1 | 2024 Mexico Open (-19, 2-stroke victory) |
| PGA Tour Canada | 3 | 2019 Canada Life Open, 2019 GolfBC Championship, 2022 CRMC Championship |
| Other Tournaments | 1 | 2024 Grant Thornton Invitational (team event) |
Major Championships
| Tournament | Best Finish | Cuts Made | Appearances |
|---|---|---|---|
| Masters Tournament | T55 (2024) | 1 | 1 |
| PGA Championship | CUT | 0 | 1 |
| U.S. Open | CUT | 0 | 1 |
| The Open Championship | N/A | 0 | 0 |
2025Â PGA Tour Performance
| Tournament | Position | Score (To Par) | Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Sentry | T56 | -6 | $49,500 |
| The American Express | Missed Cut | -7 | — |
| Farmers Insurance Open | T32 | +1 | $52,080 |
| AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am | T33 | -9 | $99,000 |
| WM Phoenix Open | T44 | -6 | $29,054 |
| The Genesis Invitational | T17 | -3 | $270,714 |
| Mexico Open | T25 | -11 | $59,350 |
| Cognizant Classic | 1st (59 Round) | -13 | — |
FAQs
1. How did Jake Knapp reach the PGA TOUR and what is his career path?
Knapp played for UCLA before turning pro in 2016, grinding through PGA Tour Canada and the Korn Ferry Tour where he notched three Canadian wins and earned his PGA Tour card in 2023 after finishing 13th on the Korn Ferry points list.​
2. What is Knapp’s first PGA TOUR victory and what made it historic?
He won the 2024 Mexico Open, becoming the first player since 1983 to win a PGA event by hitting only two fairways in the final round. The victory secured him over $1.4 million and a spot inside the world’s top 60.​
3. What are Knapp’s best results and highlights from the 2025 season?
Highlights include a final round of 59 and a T6 at the Cognizant Classic, a T3 at the 3M Open, and top-10s at the Rocket Classic (T4) and THE PLAYERS Championship (T12), showing steady presence on leaderboards.​
4. How many professional wins does Knapp have and what are his biggest trophies?
Knapp has won once on the PGA TOUR (Mexico Open), has three PGA Tour Canada wins, and claimed the Grant Thornton Invitational in a mixed-team format with Patty Tavatanakit.​
5. What is Knapp’s playing style and mental approach on the golf course?
Recognized for aggressive driver play, power, putting touch, and controlling speed, Knapp approaches each round with a detailed gameplan. His resilience and willingness to adapt under pressure are frequently highlighted by coaches.​
6. What challenges or setbacks did Knapp overcome early in his career?
After failing to secure a tour card, Knapp worked as a nightclub bouncer before returning full-time to golf. His breakthrough came after years spent refining his game and pursuing golf dreams despite financial hurdles.​
7. Did Knapp have any significant amateur or college golf achievements?
At UCLA, Knapp had multiple top-10 collegiate finishes and qualified for the 2015 U.S. Open as an amateur. He stood out at Estancia High before moving to national-level amateur events.​
8. How does Knapp prepare for championship rounds and adjust his swing?
He prioritizes grip discipline, body lines, and putting fundamentals—focusing on stroke speed and green reading. Knapp designs strategies for each hole and quickly troubleshoots swing issues on the range after rounds.​
9. What is Knapp’s background and support system?
Born in Costa Mesa, California, Knapp comes from a family of golfers with strong support from his parents and brother. His father and brother both played competitively and encouraged his early golf.​
10. What are Knapp’s goals and reputation among PGA TOUR peers?
Knapp is seen as hard-working, determined, and a fan favorite for his unconventional journey. He aims for more PGA TOUR wins and long-term tour security, respected for his clutch mentality and storybook rise.​
