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 this year’s PNC Championship on the Champions Tour was particularly emotional for Matt Kuchar. In early 2025, Kuchar lost his father, Peter Kuchar, who had played a pivotal role in his golf career and previously competed with him in this very tournament. Now, ten months later, Kuchar and his son Cameron captured the title with a record-breaking score of 33-under-par.
PNC Championship Ends in Tears and Triumph
High schooler Cameron Kuchar, allowed to tee off from forward tees, hit a strong drive before Matt struck a 7-iron to within 18 inches of the hole. Matt let Cameron tap in the final putt, sealing a memorable week for the Kuchar family. The tournament, known for its focus on family and fun, ended with Matt wiping away tears as he reflected on what the win meant without his father present. “I don’t know if you believe in karma, fate, or whatever you believe in, but there’s something magical out there,” Kuchar said, his voice breaking. “I believe in God and that my father is watching from above. What happened on 18… I could hardly stand, let alone swing. 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 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 from caddying when Matt turned pro, Peter remained a steadfast supporter and advisor. The two had competed together in past PNC Championships before Peter passed the torch to grandson Cameron. Peter died suddenly in February from a heart attack while swimming. “He was a wonderful man—an incredible grandfather, a loving husband, and the best father I could’ve asked for,” Matt said at the time. “He was a passionate pickleball player and outdoorsman with a great character and a unique personality.”
Record-Breaking Performance
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 total score of 33-under-par 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