Matt Kuchar claimed 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 on the Champions Tour carried even deeper meaning. In early 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.
Champions Tour event ends with tears and triumph
High schooler Cameron Kuchar, benefiting from forward tees, launched a strong drive before watching his father stick a 7-iron to just 18 inches. Matt then let Cameron sink the final putt, sealing a week the Kuchar family will never forget. The tournament, known for its family-centric and fun atmosphere, ended with Matt wiping away tears as he reflected on the absence of his father. “I don’t know if you believe in karma, fate, or whatever you believe in—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 make a swing. That I 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 continued the following year at the 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 torch to his grandson Cameron. Peter 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’ve asked for,” Matt shared at the time.
Matt and Cameron played as though destined to win, 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 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