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 key figure in his golf career and former playing partner at the PNC Championship. Now, 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
Cameron Kuchar, still in high school and allowed to tee off from forward tees, hit a strong drive on the final hole. Matt followed with a precise 7-iron to just 18 inches. He let Cameron sink the final putt, closing out a week the Kuchar family will never forget.
The family-focused event ended with Matt wiping away tears as he reflected on the absence of 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, voice breaking. “I believe in God and that my dad is looking down on me. What happened on 18—I could barely stand to hit the shot. To knock 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 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 Cameron.
Peter Kuchar died suddenly of a heart attack while swimming in February. “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 great character and a big personality.”
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 round of 54 and a record-breaking 33 under par total. “This is special, really special,” said an emotional Matt Kuchar after their 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