Jake Knapp, a rising star on the PGA TOUR and a standout member of Team PXG, has quickly become one to watch. With an impressive career underway, including a 2024 Rookie of the Year nomination (fingers crossed) and his first PGA TOUR victory at the Mexico Open, Jake’s story is one of persistence, passion, and purpose.
Now a Scottsdale resident, Jake’s ready to make his mark at the Waste Management Phoenix Open and beyond. In this exclusive Q&A, Jake shares his journey, insights, and what makes him tick on and off the course.
How did your journey with golf begin in your hometown of Costa Mesa?
I grew up down the street from Costa Mesa Country Club. My dad would take my brother and me there when we were young, and it became a big part of our lives. My grandparents also had homes in Palm Springs, so visits there always revolved around golf too.
When did you know golf was your calling?
I think I played my first tournament when I was six. I loved it from the start, but it wasn’t until high school that I decided to focus solely on golf. It became clear that this was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.
What’s your earliest golf memory?
Taking group lessons with my brother from my coach, John Ortega—who’s still my coach today—or running around in my grandparents’ golf cart in Palm Springs, just hitting balls wherever I could.
How did winning your first professional tournament shape your career?
Winning two of the first three events on the Canadian Tour in 2019 was huge. It gave me the confidence to believe I was ready for the next stage and set me on the path to where I am today.
How do you mentally prepare for a tournament?
It’s all about staying in the moment. I constantly remind myself to focus on what will help me hit a better shot or lower my score. If it doesn’t help, I push it aside.
What separates great golfers from good ones?
The ability to identify your flaws and work on them honestly, instead of avoiding them.
Do you have a mentor or idol?
Tiger Woods, Luke Donald and Adam Scott for their longevity and approach to the game.
What’s your favorite memory of the Waste Management Phoenix Open?
The energy! Stepping onto the 16th hole with that crowd is unforgettable.
What do you love about living in Scottsdale?
The people, the atmosphere—it reminds me of Southern California but with its own charm.
How long have you been with PXG?
This was year two with them. I’ve loved every minute of it.
How would you describe your golfing style with PXG?
PXG is all about attention to detail. It feels personal, like a family. Their fittings and equipment are top-notch, which is why I joined them.
If you weren’t golfing, what would you do?
I’d probably dive into fitness. I love training and the challenge of pushing myself physically.
What advice would you give young golfers?
Don’t get caught up in where you come from or what resources you have. It’s about how hard you work. The answers are in the dirt—just go out there and put in the effort.
Do you have any pre-game rituals or superstitions?
I always keep three tees in my right pocket—no more, no less—and my ball marker goes in my right pocket too. My routine before every round stays the same.
What’s been your most memorable victory?
My first two wins on the Canadian Tour stand out. They solidified my belief that I could compete at a higher level.
If you could play a dream foursome, who would join you?
Tiger Woods, Luke Donald, and Adam Scott.
What’s on your playlist?
I’m a huge Mac Miller fan.
How do you unwind outside of golf?
I play video games to stay connected with my friends back in California. It’s a great way to relax and keep in touch.
What are your aspirations for the next five years?
I’d love to win multiple tournaments, maybe even a major, and represent Team USA in events like the Ryder Cup.
What’s the key to solving your special talent- mastering the Rubik's Cube?
It’s all about muscle memory and a lot of practice, honestly. Once you get the hang of the algorithms, it becomes second nature. It’s a fun challenge that keeps my mind sharp and focused!
"Stepping onto The Open's 16th hole with that crowd is unforgettable."
"My routine before every round stays the same."