Trinity Rodman, a key forward for the U.S. women’s soccer team, recently shared insights into her challenging relationship with her father, former NBA star Dennis Rodman, emphasizing his noticeable absence from her life.
Trinity Rodman openly discussed her strained relationship with her father on the ‘Call Her Daddy’ podcast hosted by Alex Cooper. She expressed that while Dennis Rodman is her father biologically, he has not fulfilled the role in any meaningful way. Rodman described her father as largely absent, recounting how her mother, Michelle Moyer, attempted to distance her children from Dennis Rodman’s tumultuous lifestyle.
Michelle Moyer divorced Dennis Rodman in 2012, and since then, Trinity has had minimal encounters with her father. Despite excelling in her career, including winning a gold medal with the U.S. team at the Paris Olympics, Trinity feels a personal void due to her father’s inconsistency.
Dennis Rodman, who was a basketball sensation and a Hall of Fame inductee in 2011, acknowledged his shortcomings as a parent through a post on Instagram. He expressed regret, stating that he had tried to be a father and would continue his efforts, despite the challenges and time it might take. In his emotional message, he conveyed his longing for closeness with his children, hoping one day they might seek him out.
A significant incident highlighted by Trinity was when Dennis unexpectedly attended her game in 2021 for the Washington Spirit team in the National Women’s Soccer League playoffs. Despite it being a momentous occasion, his unannounced presence disrupted her focus, leaving her emotional and, eventually, in tears. Trinity recalled feeling that his appearance was more about being seen in public than genuine interest in her life, leading her to lose hope for a reconciliatory relationship.
Trinity Rodman’s relationship with her father stayed distant until after the 2023 Women’s World Cup. Although she continued her athletic ascent, including a victorious season with the Spirit and earning the NWSL Rookie of the Year title, her personal relationship with Dennis remained unchanged. Meanwhile, her brother DJ Rodman pursues his path in the NBA’s G League.
While Trinity Rodman continues to make a name for herself in soccer, the emotional complexity surrounding her relationship with her father Dennis remains a significant aspect of her personal narrative. Despite her successes on the field, the absence of a stable paternal relationship has been a poignant challenge in her life.