Matt Kuchar claimed an emotional PNC Championship victory with his son Cameron, ten months after the passing of his father.
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 key figure in his golf journey and former playing partner at the PNC Championship. Now, ten months later, Kuchar triumphed with his own son Cameron, setting a tournament record of 33-under-par.
Champions Tour event ends in joyful tears
High schooler Cameron Kuchar, playing from a forward tee, hit 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 event, known for its family focus and light-hearted spirit, ended with Matt wiping tears from his eyes. His voice cracked as he reflected on the moment without his father: “I don’t know if you believe in karma, fate, or whatever you believe in, but there’s something magical out there,” said Kuchar. “I believe in God and that my dad is looking down on me. 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, 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 again at the Masters and U.S. Open in 1998. Though he stepped back when Matt turned pro, Peter remained a supportive figure and even played with Matt at the PNC Championship before handing the reins to grandson Cameron.
Peter Kuchar passed away suddenly in February from a heart attack while swimming. “He was a wonderful man – an incredible grandfather, a loving husband, my mom’s best friend, and the best father I could have 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 they were destined to win. They made only two pars on the final day, offset by two eagles, finishing with a 54 and a tournament-record 33-under-par. “This is special, really 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/hMnHP