NBA legend Dennis Rodman, a player as famous for his dominance on the basketball court as his tumultuous personal life, is facing renewed scrutiny over his strained relationship with his daughter, USWNT soccer star Trinity Rodman. Trinity, who has become one of the brightest stars in women’s soccer, recently shared her frustrations about her father’s absenteeism on the popular Call Her Daddy podcast, painting a raw and unfiltered picture of their relationship.
“He’s not a dad,” Trinity stated candidly during the podcast. “Maybe by blood, but nothing else.”
Trinity revealed that Dennis has been largely absent throughout her life and accused him of only showing up when cameras were present, suggesting his appearances were more for publicity than genuine attempts to build a connection.
In response to his daughter’s remarks, Dennis issued a public apology via Instagram, expressing regret for his shortcomings as a father and pledging to continue trying to mend their relationship.
“Sorry I wasn’t the Dad you wanted me to be, but either way, I still tried and I still try and never will stop,” Dennis wrote. “I will keep trying even when you’re being told as an adult not to respond to my phone calls. I will try even when it’s difficult and takes a long time. I’m always here and tell you all the time, whether it’s your voice or voicemail, how proud I am. I always had one wish: I wish my kids would call me and come see me. Hopefully one day I can get that. I’m here, and I’m still trying. Pick up the phone—you have my number. You see me calling. I’m still here.”
RELATED: Dennis Rodman’s Daughter Goes Viral with Meme-Worthy Moment
While Dennis’ apology appeared heartfelt, Trinity was not moved. Taking to her Instagram Stories, she dismissed her father’s post, calling it “a joke” and accusing him of seeking attention rather than genuine reconciliation.
“A joke. The response alone. And the attention. Wiping my hands with it. I’m done. Thank you,” she wrote, punctuating her statement with a thumbs-up emoji.
Dennis Rodman, a five-time NBA champion and Hall of Famer, is no stranger to controversy, with his post-retirement life often overshadowed by personal struggles. However, Trinity, now 21, has forged her own path, emerging as one of soccer’s brightest stars.
She won the NWSL Rookie of the Year award in 2021 and an NWSL championship with the Washington Spirit. Most recently, she played a crucial role in helping the USWNT secure Olympic gold in Paris.
Despite their strained relationship, Trinity’s success stands as a testament to her resilience and determination.
For now, it seems she is choosing to focus on her career and personal growth rather than reopening the wounds of her relationship with her father.
While Dennis Rodman’s apology may have been an attempt to repair their bond, Trinity’s reaction suggests that reconciliation may be far more complicated than a public statement can resolve.
