Matt Kuchar claimed an emotional win at the PNC Championship with son Cameron, ten months after the passing of his father.
Winning alongside a family member is always special, but this year’s PNC Championship on the Champions Tour was particularly emotional for Matt Kuchar. In early 2025, Kuchar lost his father, Peter Kuchar, a key figure in his golf career and former playing partner at the same event. Now, ten months later, Kuchar triumphed with his own son Cameron, setting a tournament record of 33-under-par.
PNC Championship Ends in Tears of Joy
High schooler Cameron Kuchar, benefiting from forward tees, hit a strong drive on the final hole. Matt followed with a 7-iron to within 18 inches. He let Cameron sink the final putt, sealing a week the Kuchar family will never forget.
The family-focused event ended with Matt wiping away tears, his voice cracking as he reflected on the absence of his father: “I don’t know if you believe in karma, fate, whatever it is, there’s something magical out there,” said Kuchar. “I believe in God and that my dad is watching from above. What happened on 18—I could barely stand to hit the shot. To hit it to a foot makes me believe there’s something more. I just miss you, Pops.”
Father, Caddie, and Lifelong Supporter
Peter Kuchar had been a constant presence in Matt’s life and golf journey. He first caddied for Matt during his 1997 U.S. Amateur win and again at the Masters and U.S. Open the following year. Though he stepped back when Matt turned pro, Peter remained a devoted supporter and advisor. The two even played the PNC Championship together before Peter passed the torch to grandson Cameron.
Peter Kuchar died suddenly of a heart attack while swimming in February. “He was a wonderful person—an incredible grandfather, a loving husband, and the best father I could have ever asked for,” Matt said at the time. “A passionate pickleball player and outdoorsman, my dad had great character and a big personality.”
Matt and Cameron played like they were destined to win, carding only two pars on the final day and offsetting them with two eagles. They finished with a 54 for the day and a record-setting 33-under overall. “This is special, very special,” said an emotional Matt Kuchar after the win.
“I know Pops is giving big fist pumps up in the sky.”
Memories from the past and memories being made.
Matt Kuchar shares how special @PNCchampionship has been to his family. https://t.co/93dL2JdAUD pic.twitter.com/hMnHPg