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 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 key figure in his golf journey and former playing partner at the PNC Championship. Now, ten months later, Matt triumphed at the same event with his son Cameron, setting a tournament record of 33-under-par.
Champions Tour event ends in tears of joy
High schooler Cameron Kuchar, benefiting from forward tees, drove the ball before his father hit a 7-iron to within 18 inches of the hole. Matt gave Cameron the honor of sinking the final putt, sealing an unforgettable week for the Kuchar family.
The family-focused event ended with Matt wiping tears from his eyes and his voice breaking as he reflected on the moment without his father: “I don’t know if you believe in karma, fate, or whatever you believe in—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 it to a foot makes me believe there’s something more. I just miss you, Pops.”
Peter Kuchar: Father, caddie, 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 the following year. Though he stepped back when 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, loving husband, and best friend to my mom, and the best father I could’ve asked for,” Matt said at the time. “A passionate pickleball player and outdoorsman, my dad had great character and a larger-than-life personality.”
Matt and Cameron played like they were destined to win. On the final day, they made just two pars, offset by two eagles, finishing with a 54 and a record-setting 33-under for the tournament. “This is special, very special,” Matt said, visibly emotional 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/hMn