Bicknell continues ITF climb with M25 Las Vegas win
Published:Tuesday | March 31, 2026 | 12:10 AMLivingston Scott/Gleaner Writer
Jamaica’s number one tennis player Blaise Bicknell made another big jump in the ITF ranking, following an impressive win at the ITF M25 tournament in Las Vegas on the weekend.
Bicknell dismissed the challenge of American Ronit Karki, 6-3, 6-2, for a 2-0 win.
Bicknell, who also won the M15 tournament in San Jose, Costa Rica, in February, jumped 45 places up the ITF ranking, climbing from 370 to 325, following his victory on Sunday.
His highest-ever ranking stands at 306, before he had to undergo hip surgery in 2024 and fell below 1,000.
However, the 24-year-old, who made his comeback in 2025, appears to have returned to his best in 2026, and now has his sights set on qualifying for the coveted Grand Slams.
Although he will have to improve his ranking to at least 200 to become eligible for the Grams Slams, the young Jamaican does not think he is that far off
“[I aspire] to play in the Grand Slams. All four of them. And I’m getting there,” he stated following the win.
He also expressed his fondness of the city of Las Vegas and this particular tournament.
“It’s a great feeling to win the title. I played the ATP Challenger here last year and it’s a great city. The energy, the vibe. Great tennis courts, great facilities, and this was a really great tournament and I am looking forward to more tournaments.
“A good amount of people came out and I am happy to see that. It seems to be growing and there were a lot of positives,” he said.
Now based in Miami, Bicknell will next look to play two ATP Challenger tournaments in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, April 20 and 27, in an effort to continue improving his ranking, and the player is fully aware of what is required to keep climbing the ranks.
“Work hard consistently and you’ll be successful,” he added.