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 especially poignant for Matt Kuchar. In early 2025, Kuchar lost his father, Peter Kuchar, a pivotal figure in his golf career 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.
PNC Championship Ends in Tears of Joy
High schooler Cameron Kuchar, benefiting from forward tees, launched a strong drive on the final hole. Matt followed with a 7-iron to within 18 inches of the hole. He let Cameron sink the final putt, marking the end of a truly unforgettable week for the Kuchar family.
The family-focused tournament concluded with Matt wiping away tears, his voice breaking as he reflected on the absence of his father: “I don’t know if you believe in karma, in fate, whatever you believe in, there’s something magical that exists,” 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 knock it to a foot makes me believe there’s something more out there. I just miss you, Pops.”
A Lifelong Bond Through Golf
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 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 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, my mother’s best friend, and the best father I could have ever asked for,” Matt said at the time. “He was a passionate pickleball player and outdoorsman, a man of great character and a true personality.”
Matt and Cameron played as if destined to win. On the final day, they carded only two pars, offset by two eagles, finishing with a round of 54 and a record-breaking 33-under-par total. “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