Trinity Rodman, a forward for the United States women’s soccer team, has opened up about her challenging relationship with her father, former NBA star Dennis Rodman. In a recent episode of the “Call Her Daddy” podcast, she described her father as “not a dad” in any meaningful sense, sharing her feelings of estrangement despite their blood relation.
Rodman spoke candidly about her upbringing, revealing that her mother, Michelle Moyer, worked hard to shield her and her brother, DJ Rodman—who currently plays in the NBA’s G League—from their father’s tumultuous lifestyle. The couple divorced in 2012.
In a heartfelt response on Instagram, Dennis Rodman acknowledged the gap in their relationship. He expressed regret for not being the father Trinity desired and emphasized his wish for his children to reach out to him, promising to continue trying to be part of their lives.
Trinity recounted a particularly emotional moment when her father unexpectedly attended a playoff game for her team, the Washington Spirit, in 2021. The surprise visit left her feeling conflicted as it seemed more about Dennis seeking public attention than about their relationship. After the game, she felt disillusioned and lost hope for reconciliation. They did not communicate again until after the 2023 Women’s World Cup.
Despite these personal struggles, Trinity has achieved significant milestones in her career, including winning a gold medal at the Paris Olympics and being named NWSL Rookie of the Year after leading her team to a championship victory.
This story touches on the complexities of family dynamics, particularly in the face of fame and public visibility. It highlights resilience, as Trinity continues to thrive in her professional life despite the challenges she faces personally, illustrating how one can maintain focus on their goals even amid emotional turmoil.
In the grand scheme, while familial relationships can be strained, opportunities for healing and understanding remain possible. As Trinity continues to excel in her career, perhaps this journey will foster a deeper connection with her father in the future.