Matt Kuchar claimed an emotional win at the PNC Championship with son Cameron, ten months after his father’s passing.
Winning alongside a family member is always special, but this year’s PNC Championship on the Champions Tour was especially poignant for Matt Kuchar. 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, Matt teamed up with his son Cameron to win the event with a record score of 33-under-par.
PNC Championship Ends in Tears and Triumph
High schooler Cameron Kuchar, benefiting from forward tees, launched a drive that set up his father for a near-perfect 7-iron approach to just 18 inches. Matt then let Cameron sink the final putt, capping off an unforgettable week for the Kuchar family.
The family-focused event concluded 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, or whatever you believe in, but there’s something magical out there,” Kuchar said. “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.”
Peter Kuchar: Father, Caddie, and Mentor
Peter Kuchar had been a constant presence in Matt’s life and career. He first caddied for Matt during his 1997 U.S. Amateur win and continued the role at the 1998 Masters and U.S. Open. Though he stepped back from caddying when Matt turned pro, Peter remained a steadfast supporter and advisor. The two even played together in previous PNC Championships before Peter passed the torch to his grandson, Cameron.
Peter Kuchar died suddenly of a heart attack while swimming in February. “He was a wonderful man—an incredible grandfather, a loving husband, my mom’s best friend, 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 personality all his own.”
Matt and Cameron played as if destined to win. They made only two pars on the final day, offset by two eagles, finishing with a round of 54 and a tournament-record 33-under-par. “This is special, very special,” Matt said emotionally 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