Ben Silverman was handed a surprise opportunity to play in a marquee group at the Cognizant Classic this week after Will Zalatoris withdrew just before his opening round.
Zalatoris pulled out with an ankle injury shortly before his scheduled tee time, leaving a spot open alongside Brooks Koepka and Daniel Berger.
Silverman filled in for Zalatoris, stepping into a high-profile pairing. Both he and Koepka got off to slow starts, posting rounds of 74 and 73 respectively.
They responded well on Friday, though. Koepka shot an excellent 66, while Silverman carded a solid 67 to get back on track.
Silverman later shared what it was like to spend two days playing alongside the five-time major winner.
Ben Silverman reflects on playing two rounds with Brooks Koepka at the Cognizant
Silverman’s inclusion in the field came just an hour before play began, so making the cut was a solid achievement in itself.
Sharing the course with someone of Koepka’s stature must have been a unique experience, and likely helped him settle into the tournament atmosphere.
After his Friday round, Silverman spoke to Golf Channel about what it was like to spend two days alongside one of golf’s most recognisable names.
“It was awesome,” he said. “Honestly, I would love to play in a group like that every day, major winners, multiple PGA TOUR winners. It’s a different vibe, different energy amongst the players, amongst the crowd.”
“I like that environment. That’s where I want to be. Thanks to Will, unfortunately, but throwing me in that position was fortunate.”
Brooks Koepka shares thoughts on Ben Silverman’s late addition
Following his second round, Koepka spoke about what Silverman would have experienced this week, stepping in as a late replacement.
“A lot of waiting,” the five-time major winner said.
“A lot of — I think he sat around probably for — probably got here 6:00 a.m. I’m assuming at the latest because I don’t know what the — what’s the first tee time, 6:45, 6:50?
“So probably earlier than that. Then to hang around until 12:20 something, I think he’ll enjoy his sleep tonight.“
A good night’s rest and another solid round could put him right in the mix heading into Sunday.
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