Former PGA Tour golfer Matt McQuillan has died at just 45 years old, leaving Canada’s golf community mourning a player who spent years fighting his way to the sport’s highest level.
McQuillan died Wednesday, August 5, at Kingston General Hospital in his hometown of Kingston, Ontario, according to his obituary. His family was by his side when he passed away.
A cause of death has not been publicly revealed.
“It is with heavy hearts we share the passing of Matthew Justin McQuillan (Matty to most),” his obituary announced.
The family remembered McQuillan as far more than an accomplished golfer, describing him as a devoted son, a funny and beloved brother and friend, and someone who formed lifelong relationships through the game.
“He will be deeply missed by many and his spirit, love and compassion will be remembered every day,” the obituary said.
A celebration of McQuillan’s life will be held at the ANAF in Kingston at a later date, with details expected to be announced by his family.
News of his death came as a shock to many golf fans because of his relatively young age.
McQuillan had spent much of his life chasing a dream that began when he was only 10 years old. His father, Mark, taught him how to swing a golf club, and it quickly became apparent that his son had unusual talent.
By 15, McQuillan had already become the youngest player to win both the Garrison Men’s Open and Garrison Men’s Club Championship.
His success continued through his teenage years. He won the 1999 Ontario Junior Championship and Ontario Junior Match Play Championship, finished runner-up in the Canadian Junior Championship and was named Kingston’s Amateur Athlete of the Year.
McQuillan eventually earned a golf scholarship to Oklahoma State University before transferring to the University of Georgia.
He also represented Canada internationally, including at the 2000 World Junior Team event in Japan and during Canada’s victory at the 2001 Four Nations’ Cup.
McQuillan turned professional in 2003 and spent much of his early career grinding on the Canadian Tour.
His breakthrough came in 2005 when he won the Telus Edmonton Open, beating a field that included future PGA Tour golfer Graham DeLaet.
But McQuillan’s biggest career moment came years later.
In late 2010, he successfully fought his way through all three stages of PGA Tour Qualifying School, earning playing privileges for the 2011 PGA Tour season.
His best result came at the John Deere Classic in July 2011.
McQuillan opened with a 64 and eventually finished tied for third at 17-under par, collecting approximately $261,000 in prize money.
He ultimately made seven cuts in 21 PGA Tour starts that season before returning to the Canadian golf circuit. He later qualified for PGA Tour Canada again in 2017.
Despite competing on golf’s biggest stages, McQuillan remained closely associated with Kingston throughout his life.
His obituary noted that he continued mentoring other people who loved golf while forming friendships that lasted long after tournaments ended.
Now, just days after his death, those who knew him are remembering not only the player who reached the PGA Tour, but the man affectionately known simply as “Matty.”
“Rest easy, Matty,” his family wrote. “We love you.”