Olympic soccer gold medalist Trinity Rodman has opened up about her complicated relationship with her father, NBA legend Dennis Rodman. In a candid discussion during an episode of the “Call Her Daddy” podcast, Trinity reflected on her upbringing and the emotional distance she felt from her father, despite his fame as a five-time NBA champion.
At just 22 years old, Trinity has rapidly become a prominent figure in women’s soccer, having made history as the youngest player drafted into the National Women’s Soccer League and playing a crucial role in the Washington Spirit’s championship win in her rookie year. This summer, she gained further recognition while helping the U.S. women’s team clinch its first Olympic gold medal in soccer since 2012.
However, her father’s legacy in sports contrasts sharply with the personal struggles she faced growing up. Trinity revealed that Dennis Rodman was largely absent during her childhood, both emotionally and financially. She shared that she and her brother DJ, born during Dennis’ relationship with Michelle Moyer, endured hardships, including a period of homelessness. “Imagine living in a car going to a rich school; it was the most weird thing,” she said, recalling the contrasting realities of her life.
Despite his fame, Trinity described Dennis Rodman as an “extremely selfish human being,” indicating that their relationship felt one-sided. Although he expressed regret during his 2011 Hall of Fame speech about not being a better father, Trinity’s experience has led her to lose hope for a more meaningful connection.
One poignant moment she shared was an emotional encounter during a match in 2021, where her father unexpectedly attended. While the meeting had an initially positive tone, the months of silence that followed deepened her disappointment. “I think after that was when I lost hope in ever getting him back,” she admitted, revealing the ongoing emotional struggle tied to their relationship.
Trinity has voiced her desire to maintain a positive perspective, emphasizing gratitude for the moments when her father did reach out. However, the emotional toll remains, as she grapples with what it means to have a father who is more of a public figure than a supportive parent.
Despite these challenges, Trinity Rodman continues to shine in her career, proving that personal struggles do not define one’s potential for success. Her openness about her experiences could inspire many who face similar familial obstacles, demonstrating resilience and the power of pursuing one’s dreams against all odds.