Matt Kuchar claimed an emotional win at the PNC Championship with son Cameron, ten months after the passing of his father.
Winning alongside a family member is always special, but for Matt Kuchar, this year’s PNC Championship on the Champions Tour was deeply emotional. 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, Matt triumphed with his son Cameron, setting a tournament record at 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. His father followed with a 7-iron to within 18 inches. Matt then let Cameron tap in the final putt, sealing a week the Kuchar family will never forget.
As the tournament, known for its family-friendly atmosphere, concluded, Matt wiped away tears and struggled to speak about what the win meant without 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. “I believe in God and that my dad is watching from above. What happened on 18, I could barely stand and hit a shot. To knock it to a foot… I believe there’s something more. I just miss you, Pops.”
Father, caddie, mentor
Peter Kuchar was a constant presence in Matt’s life and career. He first caddied for Matt at the 1997 U.S. Amateur, which Matt won. He continued to caddie for his son at the 1998 Masters and U.S. Open, even as Matt transitioned into a professional career. Though he stepped back from caddying, Peter remained a steadfast 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 and best friend to my mom, and the best father I could have ever asked for,” Matt said at the time. “An avid 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. On the final day, they made only two pars, offset by two eagles, finishing with a 54 and a record-setting 33-under-par for the tournament. “This is special, very special,” said an emotional Matt Kuchar after their victory.
“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://