SOUTHPORT, ENGLAND – JULY 23: Matt Kuchar of the United States hugs his children as his wife Sybi Kuchar congratulates Jordan Spieth of the United States on the 18th green during the final round of the 146th Open Championship at Royal Birkdale on July 23, 2017 in Southport, England. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)

What can ease the heartache of losing a PGA TOUR major by three strokes? How about a surprise visit from your family? That’s exactly what went down for Matt Kuchar, the runner-up of the 146th British Open.

Kuchar thought his family was in Colorado, but when his wife, Sybi, saw how well he was playing, she quickly and quietly booked a flight to England for herself and the couple’s two boys, so they could surprise him after the final round.

As Kuchar approached the 18th green on Sunday at Royal Birkdale Golf Club, he saw them and was flooded with emotion.

“Then seeing the family, that was a surprise,” he said following the final round. “I talked to them last night on the phone. Thought they were in Colorado. It was a great surprise; a teary surprise, and it’s great to have people to share things with, have loved ones here.

“Certainly my family means a lot. They’re a big support team. Golf is a selfish game, and what they go through, it’s an amazing support to help me try to be my best. It was very, very cool to have them here.”

The magnitude of Kuchar’s moment certainly wasn’t lost on 2017 British Open champion, Jordan Spieth.

“I noticed it when I walked up and saw his family hugging him, and I think Cameron is his oldest, that was in tears,” Spieth said. “At that moment I’m so happy. And at the same time I see that and I thought to myself, ‘Man, put this in perspective. He’s a dad.’ I’m not a dad, I don’t think that way. And I was able to kind of get a little glimpse into what that’s like.”

Family first, golf second. In victory and defeat.