Matt Kuchar claimed an emotional win at the PNC Championship with 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 emotional for Matt Kuchar. In early 2025, Kuchar lost his father, Peter Kuchar, a key figure in his golf journey and former teammate at the PNC Championship. Now, ten months later, Kuchar 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 on the final hole. Matt followed with a 7-iron to within 18 inches of the pin. He let Cameron sink the final putt, sealing an unforgettable week for the Kuchar family.
The event, known for its family-friendly 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, but there’s something magical out there,” Kuchar said, voice breaking. “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 hit 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 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 as Matt turned pro, Peter remained a close supporter and advisor. The two played together at the PNC Championship before Peter passed the torch to Cameron.
Peter Kuchar died suddenly of a heart attack while swimming in February. “He was a wonderful man—an incredible grandfather, loving husband, my mom’s best friend, and the best father I could have ever asked for,” Matt shared at the time. “He loved pickleball and the outdoors, and he had an amazing character.”
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 round of 54 and a record-setting 33-under-par total. “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