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 for Matt Kuchar, this year’s PNC Championship was deeply emotional. In early 2025, Kuchar lost his father, Peter Kuchar, a pivotal figure in his golf journey and former playing partner at the PNC Championship. Now, ten months later, Matt and his son Cameron captured the title with a record-breaking score of 33-under-par.
Champions Tour event ends in tears of joy
High schooler Cameron Kuchar, benefiting from a forward tee position, hit a strong drive on the final hole. Matt followed with a 7-iron to within 18 inches of the pin, then let Cameron sink the final putt—sealing a week the Kuchar family will never forget.
The event, known for its family-centric and fun atmosphere, 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 whatever you believe in—there’s something magical out there,” Kuchar said, voice breaking. “I believe in God and that my dad is watching from above. What happened on 18… I could barely stand, let alone hit a shot. To hit it to a foot—there’s something else 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 1998 Masters and U.S. Open. Though he stepped back when Matt turned pro, Peter remained a close supporter and advisor. The two 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 man—an incredible grandfather, a loving husband and best friend to my mom, and the best father I could have 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 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, 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/hMn