Matt Kuchar claimed an emotional victory at the PNC Championship with his son Cameron, 10 months after his father’s passing.
Winning a tournament 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, a pivotal figure in his golf career and former playing partner at the same event. Now, nearly a year later, Matt triumphed at the tournament with his son Cameron, setting a new record of 33-under-par.
PNC Championship Ends in Tears and Triumph
High schooler Cameron Kuchar, who was allowed to tee off from forward tees, hit a strong drive on the final hole. His father followed up with a 7-iron approach to just 18 inches from the hole. Matt then let Cameron sink the final putt, sealing a memorable week for the Kuchar family.
The event, known for its family-friendly atmosphere, concluded with Matt wiping tears from his eyes. His voice broke as he reflected on the moment: “I don’t know if you believe in karma, fate, or whatever you believe in, but there’s something magical out there,” 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. The fact that I hit it to a foot makes me believe there’s something more out there. I just miss you, Pops.”
Legacy of a 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 continued the role at the 1998 Masters and U.S. Open. Though he stepped back when Matt turned professional, Peter remained a steadfast supporter and advisor. The two even played together in past PNC Championships before Peter passed the torch to his 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. “He loved pickleball and the outdoors and had a character all his own.”
Matt and Cameron played like champions, carding only two pars on the final day and offsetting them with two eagles. They finished with a round of 54 and a tournament total of 33-under-par—a new 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/93dL2