Matt Kuchar claimed an emotional win at the PNC Championship with his son Cameron, months after his father’s passing.
Winning alongside a family member is always special, but this year’s PNC Championship on the Champions Tour held deeper meaning for Matt Kuchar. In early 2025, Kuchar lost his father, Peter Kuchar, a pivotal figure in his golf career and former playing partner at the PNC Championship. Ten months later, Matt 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, benefiting from forward tees, hit a strong drive on the final hole. Matt followed with a 7-iron to within 18 inches, then let Cameron sink the final putt, capping off an unforgettable week for the Kuchar family.
The family-focused tournament concluded with Matt wiping away tears, his voice breaking as he reflected on the moment without his father. “I don’t know if you believe in karma, fate, or whatever it is, but there’s something magical out there,” Kuchar said. “I believe in God and that my dad is watching from above. What happened on 18—I could barely stand, and yet I hit it to a foot. That makes me believe there’s something more. I just miss you, Pops.”
Father, caddie, and lifelong supporter
Peter Kuchar had been a constant presence in Matt’s life and golf journey. He first caddied for Matt during his 1997 U.S. Amateur win and continued through Matt’s amateur appearances at the Masters and U.S. Open. Though he stepped back when Matt turned pro, Peter remained a close supporter and advisor. The two also played the PNC Championship together before Peter passed the torch 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, 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 big personality.”
Matt and Cameron played like they were destined to win. On the final day, they carded just two pars, offset by two eagles, finishing with a 54 and setting a new tournament record at 33-under. “This is special, very special,” an emotional Matt Kuchar said 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