Matt Kuchar claimed an emotional win at the PNC Championship with 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, a pivotal figure in his golf career and former playing partner at the same event. Now, ten months later, Kuchar triumphed with his son Cameron, setting a tournament record of 33-under-par.
Champions Tour event ends in joyful tears
High schooler Cameron Kuchar, benefiting from forward tees, hit a strong drive on the final hole. Matt followed with a 7-iron to within 18 inches. He let Cameron sink the final putt, sealing an unforgettable week for the Kuchar family.
The family-focused tournament ended 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, 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. To knock it to a foot makes me believe there’s something more. I just miss you, Pops.”
Father, caddie, and lifelong supporter
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 again at the 1998 Masters and U.S. Open. 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 baton to grandson Cameron.
Peter Kuchar died of a heart attack while swimming in February, a sudden and devastating loss for the family. “He was a wonderful man—an incredible grandfather, a loving husband and best friend to my mom, and the best father I could have ever asked for,” Matt said at the time.
Matt and Cameron played like a team on a mission, carding just two pars on the final day and offsetting them with two eagles to shoot a 54, clinching the title at 33-under-par—a tournament record. “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/hMnHPgM268
— PGA TOUR