Matt Kuchar claimed an emotional victory 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, he lifted the trophy with his son Cameron, setting a tournament record of 33-under-par.
Champions Tour event ends in tears and triumph
High schooler Cameron Kuchar, playing from forward tees, hit a solid drive on the final hole. Matt followed with a 7-iron approach to just 18 inches. He let Cameron sink the final putt, sealing a memorable week for the Kuchar family. The event, known for its family-friendly 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, but 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.”
Peter Kuchar: Caddie, mentor, and father
Peter Kuchar had been a constant presence in Matt’s life and golf career. He first caddied for Matt during his 1997 U.S. Amateur win and continued the following year at the Masters and U.S. Open. Though he stepped back as Matt turned pro, he remained a steadfast supporter and advisor. The two had played the PNC Championship together before Peter passed the torch to his grandson, Cameron. Peter died suddenly in February from a heart attack while swimming. “He was a wonderful man—an incredible grandfather, loving husband, and the best father I could’ve asked for,” Matt said at the time.
Matt and Cameron played like champions, carding just two pars on the final day, offset by two eagles, finishing with a 54 and a tournament-record 33-under-par. “This is special, really 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/hMnHPgM268