Matt Kuchar claimed an emotional victory at the PNC Championship with his son Cameron, ten months after his father’s passing.
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 career and former playing partner at the PNC Championship. Now, ten months later, Matt triumphed at the same event with his son Cameron, setting a tournament record of 33-under-par.
Champions Tour event ends in tears of joy
High schooler Cameron Kuchar, benefiting from forward tees, launched a drive that set up his father for a near-perfect 7-iron approach to just 18 inches. Matt then handed Cameron the honor of sinking the final putt, capping off an unforgettable week for the Kuchar family.
The tournament, known for its family-centered and fun atmosphere, concluded with Matt wiping away tears 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,” said Kuchar. “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. That I 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 golf journey. He first caddied for Matt during his 1997 U.S. Amateur win and continued the role at the Masters and U.S. Open the following year. Though he stepped back when Matt turned pro, Peter remained a steadfast supporter and advisor. The two even played in past editions of the PNC Championship 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 big personality.”
Matt and Cameron played with determination, carding only two pars on the final day and offsetting them with two eagles to shoot a 54 and finish at 33-under-par—a new 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. https://t.co/93dL2JdAUD