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Emotional Victory for Matt Kuchar at PNC Championship

Emotional Victory for Matt Kuchar at PNC Championship
Matt and Cameron Kuchar secured an emotional victory at the PNC Championship (Photo: Getty)

Matt Kuchar claimed an emotional win at the PNC Championship with his son Cameron, ten months after his father’s passing.

Winning alongside a family member is always special, but for Matt Kuchar, this year’s PNC Championship was deeply emotional. In early 2025, Kuchar lost his father, Peter Kuchar, a key figure in his golf journey and former playing partner at the PNC Championship. Now, ten months later, Kuchar triumphed with his son Cameron, setting a tournament record of 33-under-par.

PNC Championship ends in tears of joy

High schooler Cameron Kuchar, playing from a forward tee, hit a strong drive before watching his father stick a 7-iron to just 18 inches. Matt let Cameron sink the final putt, capping off an unforgettable week for the Kuchar family.

The family-focused event ended with Matt wiping away tears as he reflected on the absence of his father. “I don’t know if you believe in karma, fate, or anything like that, but there’s something magical out there,” Kuchar said, voice trembling. “I believe in God and that my dad is watching from above. What happened on 18… I could barely stand, and to hit it to a foot—there’s something more out there. I just miss you, Pops.”

Father, caddie, mentor

Peter Kuchar was a constant presence in Matt’s life and career. He first caddied for Matt during his 1997 U.S. Amateur win and again at the Masters and U.S. Open in 1998. Though he stepped back when Matt turned pro, Peter remained a loyal supporter and advisor. The two even played together at the PNC Championship before Peter passed the torch to Cameron.

Peter Kuchar died suddenly of a heart attack while swimming in February. “He was a wonderful man—an incredible grandfather, loving husband, and the best father I could have asked for,” Matt said at the time. “A passionate pickleball player and outdoorsman, my dad had a great character and a one-of-a-kind personality.”

Matt and Cameron played like champions, carding only two pars on the final day and offsetting them with two eagles to shoot a 54. Their 33-under-par total set a new tournament record. “This is special, really special,” an emotional Matt Kuchar said of the win.