Matt Kuchar claimed an emotional win at the PNC Championship with son Cameron, ten months after the passing of his father.
Winning a tournament alongside a family member is always special, but for Matt Kuchar, this year’s PNC Championship was deeply emotional. In February 2025, Kuchar lost his father, Peter Kuchar, a pivotal figure in his golf journey and former playing partner at this very event. Now, nearly a year later, Kuchar triumphed with his son Cameron, setting a tournament record at 33-under-par.
PNC Championship Ends in Tears and Triumph
High schooler Cameron Kuchar, benefiting from forward tees, launched a drive that set up his father for a near-perfect approach with a 7-iron to just 18 inches. Matt then handed Cameron the honor of sinking the final putt, sealing a week the Kuchar family will never forget.
As the tournament—known for its family-focused and fun atmosphere—came to a close, Matt Kuchar wiped away tears and 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,” he said, voice breaking. “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.”
Legacy of Peter Kuchar Lives On
Peter Kuchar was a constant presence in Matt’s life and career. He famously 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 competed 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, loving husband, and the best father I could have ever asked for,” Matt said at the time. “A passionate pickleball player and outdoorsman, my dad had a huge heart and a personality all his own.”
Matt and Cameron Kuchar played like men on a mission, carding only two pars on the final day and offsetting them with two eagles. They closed with a round of 54 and a record-setting 33-under-par overall. “This is special, very special,” an emotional Matt Kuchar said of their victory.
“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