Matt Kuchar claimed an emotional victory at the PNC Championship with his son Cameron, ten months after losing his father.
Winning alongside a family member is always special, but this year’s PNC Championship on the Champions Tour was particularly poignant 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, nearly a year later, Kuchar triumphed at the same event with his son Cameron, setting a tournament record of 33-under-par.
Champions Tour event ends in joyful tears
High schooler Cameron Kuchar, benefiting from a forward tee position, launched a strong drive on the final hole. His father followed with a 7-iron approach to just 18 inches. Matt then gave Cameron the honor of sinking the final putt, capping off an unforgettable week for the Kuchar family.
As the tournament—known for its family-focused, fun atmosphere—concluded, Matt Kuchar wiped away tears and struggled to speak about what the win meant without his father. “I don’t know if you believe in karma, fate, or whatever it is, but there’s something magical out there,” he said. “I believe in God and that my dad is watching from above. What happened on 18… I could barely stand to hit the shot, and to knock it to a foot makes me believe there’s something more. I just miss you, Pops.”
Father, caddie, mentor
Peter Kuchar had been a constant presence in Matt’s life and golf career. He first 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 from caddying 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 Kuchar died suddenly of 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 personality all his own.”
Matt and Cameron played like they were destined to win. On the final day, they made only two pars, offset by two eagles, finishing with a round of 54 and a tournament-record 33-under-par. “This is special, very special,” Matt said emotionally 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/93d