Matt Kuchar claimed an emotional win at the PNC Championship with son Cameron, ten months after the passing of his father.
Winning a tournament 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 central figure in his golf journey and former playing partner at the PNC Championship. Now, ten months later, Matt and his son Cameron captured the title with a record-breaking score of 33-under-par.
Champions Tour Family Event Ends in Tears of Joy
High schooler Cameron Kuchar, playing from forward tees, hit a strong drive on the final hole, setting up his father for a precise 7-iron shot that landed just 18 inches from the pin. Matt then let Cameron sink the final putt, capping off an unforgettable week for the Kuchar family.
The family-focused event concluded with Matt wiping away tears and his voice cracking as he reflected on what the moment meant without his father. “I don’t know if you believe in karma, fate, or whatever you believe in—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 to hit the shot. To hit it to one foot… it 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 career, first caddying for him during his 1997 U.S. Amateur win. He continued to support Matt through his amateur appearances at the Masters and U.S. Open in 1998. 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 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, my mother’s best friend, and the best father I could’ve ever asked for,” Matt said at the time. “A passionate pickleball player and outdoorsman, my dad had great character and a one-of-a-kind personality.”
Matt and Cameron Kuchar played like champions, recording only two pars on the final day and offsetting them with two eagles to shoot a 54 and finish at 33-under-par—a tournament record. “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.