Former PGA Tour player Matt McQuillan has died at the age of 45, his loved ones announced. The Canadian golfer, who competed in 32 PGA Tour events and achieved three top-10 finishes as a rookie, passed away on Wednesday. He was surrounded by his family at a hospital in Ontario, Canada. A cause of death was not listed.
McQuillan turned professional in 2003 after playing college golf at Oklahoma State and Georgia. He developed lifelong friendships through the sport and was remembered as "a respected golfer, devoted son, hilarious brother, and friend." His obituary noted his ability to bring people together and offer encouragement, laughter, and genuine friendship. He was described as having a welcoming personality and unwavering kindness, making him a beloved figure in Kingston's golfing community and beyond.
Golf Canada joined the Canadian golf community in mourning the passing of McQuillan, whom they identified as one of Canada's most promising young golfers in the late 1990s. After his professional playing career, McQuillan returned to his hometown of Kingston, Ontario, to teach golf, aiming to introduce and develop the next generation of Canadian golfers.
His best PGA Tour result was a tie for third place at the 2011 John Deere Classic, where he shot a final-round 64. He finished behind winner Steve Stricker in that event. McQuillan's father, Mark, began teaching him golf at age 10, leading to success on the Canadian Tour and eventually the PGA Tour.