“He’s not a dad,” Trinity Rodman stated candidly about her relationship with Dennis Rodman, emphasizing the emotional distance that has characterized their bond. The forward for the United States women’s national soccer team revealed this during her appearance on the Call Her Daddy podcast with host Alex Cooper.
Trinity shared that her mother, Michelle Moyer, worked hard to protect her and her brother from the tumultuous lifestyle associated with their father, a former NBA star. The couple divorced in 2012, which marked a significant turning point in their family dynamics.
This past summer, Trinity celebrated a monumental achievement by winning a gold medal at the Paris Olympics, further establishing her identity beyond being Dennis Rodman’s daughter. Her brother, DJ Rodman, is also making strides in his basketball career, currently playing in the NBA’s G League.
In a heartfelt response on Instagram, Dennis expressed remorse for not being the father Trinity desired, stating, “I wasn’t the dad you wanted me to be,” while affirming his commitment to continue trying to mend their relationship.
He further added, “I will try even when it’s difficult and if it takes a long time,” highlighting his desire for connection. Dennis also shared his hope that his children would reach out to him, expressing a longing for familial ties.
Trinity recounted a poignant moment from 2021 when her father unexpectedly attended a playoff game for the Washington Spirit, where she plays in the National Women’s Soccer League. This surprise appearance stirred emotions, as Trinity had not spoken to him for months, leading to a moment captured in a photograph where she was seen crying in his arms.
Reflecting on that game, she expressed her frustration, feeling that he had disrupted a joyful occasion for her. “You took this happy moment from me,” she recalled feeling, revealing the complex emotions tied to their relationship.
Trinity voiced her disillusionment, stating, “I think after that was when I lost hope of ever getting him back,” suggesting that his visits felt more like publicity stunts than genuine attempts at reconnecting.
Despite the challenges, Trinity Rodman went on to achieve significant success, winning a title with the Spirit and being named NWSL Rookie of the Year that same year. After her remarkable journey, she had no contact with her father until after the 2023 Women’s World Cup.
Dennis Rodman, known for his impressive basketball career, secured five NBA championships and was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2011. His legacy in sports contrasts sharply with the personal struggles he faces in his familial relationships.
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