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 pivotal figure in his golf journey and a former participant with Matt in the same event. Now, ten months later, Matt triumphed with his son Cameron, setting a tournament record of 33-under-par.
PNC Championship Ends in Tears of Joy
High schooler Cameron Kuchar, playing from forward tees, hit a strong drive before Matt approached to within 18 inches using a 7-iron. Matt let Cameron sink the final putt, sealing a memorable week for the Kuchar family.
The family-focused tournament ended with Matt wiping away tears, his voice cracking 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,” said Kuchar. “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 a foot 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. 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 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 torch 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 and best friend to my mom, 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 unique 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 tournament-record total of 33-under-par. “This is special, very special,” said an emotional Matt Kuchar.
“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