Matt Kuchar claimed an emotional win at the PNC Championship with son Cameron, ten months after losing his father.
Winning alongside a family member is always special, but for Matt Kuchar, this year’s PNC Championship on the Champions Tour 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 tournament-record score of 33 under par.
Champions Tour family event ends in tears of joy
High schooler Cameron Kuchar, benefiting from forward tees, hit a strong drive on the final hole. His father followed with a 7-iron to just 18 inches from the pin. Matt then let Cameron sink the final putt, closing out an unforgettable week for the Kuchar family.
The event, known for its focus on family and fun, 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,” 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 knock it to a foot makes me believe there’s something more. I just miss you, Pops.”
Father, caddie, mentor—and legacy
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 the following year. Though he stepped back as Matt turned pro, Peter remained a steadfast supporter and advisor. The two even played together at the PNC Championship 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, my mom’s best friend, and the best father I could have asked for,” Matt said at the time. “An avid pickleball player and outdoorsman, my dad had a great character and was truly one of a kind.”
Matt and Cameron played like champions, carding just 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, 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