Trey Mallory earned his first Association of Tennis Professionals singles point after winning a match at the International Tennis Federation’s M15 in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

Mallory came through his round-of-32 encounter against opponent Yvo Panak, from the Czech Republic, who retired after the Bermudian triumphed 6-2 in the first set and was 2-0 up in the second.

Mallory becomes only the third Bermudian to achieve the feat, following Stephen Alger and James Collieson.

“I’m thrilled to have earned my first ATP point,” Mallory told The Royal Gazette. “Growing up, I always dreamt of becoming a professional tennis player and reaching this milestone feels like a dream come true.

“I still remember the countless hours of training as a junior with my dad and the amazing coaches at the Temple of Tennis. Now, seeing all that hard work start to pay off is incredibly rewarding.

“Breaking into the professional ranks in tennis is no easy feat, and I’m deeply grateful for all the sacrifices that made this possible. This is just the beginning, and I know there are many more points ahead.

“Earning an ATP point is hard to come by. The further you go in a tournament, the more points you earn.”

The 22-year-old, who received a wild-card entry into the main draw, lost his round-of-16 contest in straight sets (6-2, 6-2) to American Miles Jones.

“I tried my best under the circumstances because I was suffering from food poisoning going into that match against Miles Jones,” the Bermudian said.

“The Dominican Tennis Federation presented me with a wild card to the main draw, and I made the best of it. For that, I’m really grateful.”

Due to school commitments, Bermuda’s Davis Cup player has participated in only three senior ITF tournaments, with his maiden event coming at the Men’s World Tennis Tour M15 in Kingston, Jamaica.

Mallory is now back at the University of North Carolina Wilmington and preparing for the start of the collegiate tennis season.

“Our school season starts in January, so I will have to wait until the end of the season to play in more pro events,” he said.

“When I was younger, I played on the ITF World Tennis Tour Juniors, but this year was the first time I played in a men’s pro tournament.”

Michael Wolfe, the Bermuda Lawn Tennis Association president, has congratulated Mallory on his latest accomplishment.

“Trey is one of just three Bermudians to ever earn ATP points, and that is a remarkable achievement that underscores his dedication and hard work,” Wolfe said.

“His journey to professional tennis is an inspiration to all. With each accomplishment, Trey continues to elevate Bermuda’s standing on the international tennis stage.

“On behalf of the BLTA, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Trey on this significant milestone.”