Matt Kuchar claimed an emotional win at the PNC Championship alongside his son Cameron, ten months after his father’s passing.
Winning a tournament with a family member is always special, but this year’s PNC Championship on the Champions Tour had added emotional weight 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 at the same event with his son Cameron, setting a tournament record 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 up with a 7-iron to within 18 inches of the cup. He let Cameron sink the final putt, capping off an unforgettable week for the Kuchar family. The fun-focused tournament ended with Matt wiping away tears as he reflected on the moment: “I don’t know if you believe in karma, in fate, whatever you believe in, there’s something magical out there,” he said, voice trembling. “I believe in God and that my dad is watching from above. What happened on 18—I could barely stand to hit the shot. That I hit 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 again at the Masters and U.S. Open in 1998. Though he stepped back as Matt turned pro, Peter remained a steadfast supporter and advisor. The two played the PNC Championship together before Peter passed the baton to his grandson, Cameron.
Peter Kuchar died suddenly in February from a heart attack while swimming. “He was a wonderful man—an incredible grandfather, a loving husband and best friend to my mom, and the best father I could’ve asked for,” Matt said at the time. “A passionate pickleball player and outdoorsman, my dad had a great character and a personality all his own.”
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, really 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/93dL2JdAUD