Matt Kuchar secured an emotional victory at the PNC Championship with his son Cameron, ten months after his father’s passing.
Winning a tournament 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 pivotal figure in his golf journey and former playing partner at the PNC Championship. Now, 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, who played from forward tees, hit a strong drive on the final hole. Matt followed with a 7-iron to within 18 inches of the pin, then 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 absence of his father: \”I don’t know if you believe in karma, fate, or whatever, but there’s something magical out there,\” said Kuchar. \”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 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 pro, Peter remained a key supporter and advisor. The two even played the PNC Championship together before Peter passed the torch to grandson Cameron.
Peter Kuchar died suddenly from 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 ever asked for,\” Matt said at the time. \”A passionate pickleball player and outdoorsman, my dad had great character and a big personality.\”
Matt and Cameron played like champions, carding only two pars on the final day and offsetting them with two eagles to shoot a 54. Their 33-under-par total set a new tournament record. \”This is special, very special,\” said an emotional Matt Kuchar after their 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