Matt Kuchar claimed an emotional win at the PNC Championship with son Cameron, 10 months after the passing of his father.
Winning alongside a family member is always special, but for Matt Kuchar, this year’s PNC Championship was deeply emotional. In early 2025, Kuchar lost his father, Peter Kuchar, a vital figure in his golf journey and former PNC Championship partner. Ten months later, Matt and his son Cameron captured the title with a tournament-record score of 33-under-par.
Champions Tour event ends in tears of joy
High schooler Cameron Kuchar, playing from forward tees, hit a strong drive before his father stuck a 7-iron to just 18 inches. Matt let Cameron sink the final putt, capping off an unforgettable week for the Kuchar family.
The family-focused event ended with Matt wiping away tears, his voice cracking as he reflected on the win without his father. “I don’t know if you believe in karma, fate, or whatever it is—but something magical exists,” said Kuchar. “I believe in God and that my dad is watching from above. What happened on 18… I could barely stand, and yet I hit it to a foot. I just miss you, Pops.”
Father, caddie, mentor
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 through Matt’s amateur appearances at the Masters and U.S. Open. Though he stepped back when Matt turned pro, Peter remained a close supporter and advisor. The two even played the PNC Championship together before Peter passed the baton to grandson Cameron.
Peter Kuchar died suddenly in February from a heart attack while swimming. “He was a wonderful man—an incredible grandfather, loving husband, and the best father I could’ve asked for,” Matt said at the time. “A passionate pickleball player and outdoorsman, he had a great character and was truly one of a kind.”
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 record-setting 33-under-par for the tournament. “This is special, really special,” said an emotional Matt Kuchar.
“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