Matt Kuchar claimed an emotional victory at the PNC Championship with son Cameron, 10 months after his father’s passing.
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 journey and former playing partner at the PNC Championship. Now, ten months later, Matt and his son Cameron Kuchar captured the title with a record score of 33 under par.
Champions Tour family event ends in tears of joy
High schooler Cameron Kuchar, playing from forward tees, hit a strong drive on the final hole. Matt followed with a 7-iron to within 18 inches. He let Cameron sink the final putt, sealing an unforgettable week for the Kuchar family.
As the event, known for its focus on family and fun, 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 anything like that, but there’s something magical out there,” Kuchar said, visibly emotional. “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, mentor: Remembering Peter Kuchar
Peter Kuchar was a constant presence in Matt’s life and career. He first caddied for Matt during his 1997 U.S. Amateur victory and again at the 1998 Masters and U.S. Open. Though he stepped back from caddying when Matt turned pro, he remained a steadfast supporter and advisor. The two even played together at the PNC Championship before Peter passed the torch to grandson Cameron.
Peter Kuchar died suddenly of a heart attack while swimming in February. “He was a wonderful man—an incredible grandfather, loving husband, my mother’s best friend, and the best father I could have asked for,” Matt said at the time. “He loved pickleball and the outdoors. He was a man of great character and a true personality.”
Matt and Cameron played like champions, carding only two pars on the final day and offsetting them with two eagles to shoot a 54. Their 33-under-par total set 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