Matt Kuchar claimed an emotional win 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 emotional for Matt Kuchar. In early 2025, Kuchar lost his father, Peter Kuchar, a pivotal figure in his golf career and former playing partner at this very event. Now, ten months later, Kuchar triumphed with his son Cameron, setting a tournament record at 33-under-par.
Champions Tour event ends in joyful tears
High schooler Cameron Kuchar, playing from forward tees, hit a strong drive on the final hole. Matt followed with a 7-iron that landed just 18 inches from the pin. He let Cameron sink the final putt, capping off an unforgettable week for the Kuchar family.
The family-focused tournament ended with Matt wiping tears from his eyes, his voice cracking as he reflected on the moment. “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 father is watching from above. What happened on 18, I could barely stand and 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 was a constant presence in Matt’s life and golf career. He first caddied for Matt during his 1997 U.S. Amateur win and was on the bag again at the 1998 Masters and U.S. Open. 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 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. They made only two pars on the final day, offset by two eagles, finishing with a round of 54 and a tournament total of 33-under-par—a new 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. https://t.co/93dL2JdAUD <