When sport meets romance, the result can be magical — and that’s exactly what Ben Shelton and Trinity Rodman are proving
With one scoring goals and the other winning matches, they’re showing what it means to support each other in pursuit of greatness.
Saturday’s 2-0 win was a victory for the USWNT, but also a moment that highlighted how love and ambition can thrive together.
At the end of the day, Trinity Rodman and Ben Shelton are young athletes navigating fame, performance pressures, and personal happiness—all in real time.
Their relationship, while sweet and celebrated, is also a reminder that even public figures deserve privacy, support, and joy.
Rodman’s brief but heartfelt comment—“I’m obviously very happy”—speaks volumes. In a world where celebrity romances often feel curated or strategic, this one feels refreshingly genuine.
With both continuing to break barriers in their sports and remain authentic to who they are, it’s clear this is a duo to root for—on and off the field and court.
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Table of Contents
Trinity Rodman Shines, Ben Shelton Celebrates
Sports and romance crossed paths in spectacular fashion on Saturday, April 5, as Trinity Rodman led the United States Women’s National Team (USWNT) to a 2-0 win over Brazil in a soccer friendly — with none other than ATP star Ben Shelton cheering her on from afar.1
Rodman’s goal set the tone for the match, and her boyfriend, rising tennis sensation Shelton, didn’t hesitate to share his pride.
From the opening whistle, the USWNT looked sharp and determined. It didn’t take long for Trinity Rodman to make her mark. Just five minutes into the match, the 21-year-old forward found the back of the net with a superbly timed strike. It was a classic Rodman goal — a combination of intelligent movement, pinpoint technique, and sheer confidence.
Rodman’s effort, however, was made possible by the electrifying run of Alyssa Thompson, who dazzled with her footwork through Brazil’s midfield before threading a perfect through-ball into the box.
Rodman didn’t hesitate, meeting the pass with a low drive from the outside of her right foot that zipped past the Brazilian goalkeeper.
The early goal ignited the home crowd and put Brazil on the back foot from the get-go. It was also a reminder of how Rodman’s presence instantly raises the USWNT’s attacking threat.
Check out the full episode of Home Team w/ @whistlesports ⚽️ 🏀 😂 https://t.co/QmLP0r2jlw
— Trinity Rodman (@trinity_rodman) August 29, 2023
Shelton Shows His Support on Social Media
While Trinity was taking care of business on the pitch, Ben Shelton — the 14th-ranked player on the ATP Tour — was playing the supportive boyfriend.
After the game, he took to Instagram to re3post a clip of Rodman’s goal to his Stories, accompanied by a U.S. flag emoji and a lock emoji — perhaps symbolizing that he’s “locked in” on Rodman.
The couple publicly confirmed their relationship earlier this year, drawing interest from fans of both tennis and soccer.
Shelton, known for his big serve and larger-than-life personality, has brought that same energy to supporting Rodman’s career. Saturday’s post was another sweet moment showing their growing bond and mutual support as elite athletes.
Trinity Rodman: Lindsey Heaps Doubles the Lead from the Spot
The USWNT continued to dominate possession throughout the match, with Brazil struggling to create meaningful chances.2
In the 66th minute, the Americans were awarded a penalty after substitute Lily Yohannes was brought down inside the box by Brazilian defender Ludmila.
Up stepped Lindsey Heaps, who coolly slotted the penalty into the corner to double the U.S. lead. The goal sealed the win and emphasized the team’s depth — a promising sign ahead of upcoming international competitions.
This match also marked a significant return for Rodman, who hadn’t featured for the USWNT since the gold medal showdown against Brazil at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Her impact, however, made it clear she hadn’t missed a beat.
The Rodman-Shelton Romance: A New Sports Power Couple
Trinity Rodman and Ben Shelton’s relationship has captivated fans since becoming public. Both are young, successful, and fiercely competitive in their respective sports.
Rodman, the daughter of NBA legend Dennis Rodman, has carved out her own legacy in soccer, while Shelton has quickly become one of tennis’s most exciting talents.
In a March interview, Rodman gave a brief but heartfelt insight into her relationship with Shelton, noting how they inspire and support one another amid their busy athletic schedules. She praised the balance they’ve been able to strike and how their relationship brings joy during the grind of their demanding careers.
Their public appearances and social media posts reflect a genuine connection that goes beyond surface-level celebrity. For fans, they’re not just a couple — they’re two rising stars who uplift one another.
A Growing Legacy for Trinity Rodman
Trinity Rodman has consistently lived up to the hype that surrounded her from the start of her professional career.
Known for her creativity, speed, and finishing touch, Rodman has become a cornerstone of the USWNT’s new generation. Her goal against Brazil was another example of her growth as a player who thrives under pressure and seizes big moments.
Her performances at the 2024 Paris Olympics helped cement her status as one of the team’s most important players.
Now, with the USWNT preparing for more international competition, Rodman’s form will be key to their success.
And with Shelton in her corner, it looks like she has plenty of motivation.
Alyssa Thompson: The Silent Architect of the Opener
While Rodman got the spotlight for her goal, Alyssa Thompson deserves special recognition for her role in the buildup.
The young midfielder showed incredible composure and vision as she danced through Brazil’s midfield. Her pass split the defense perfectly and gave Rodman a golden chance.
At just 19, Thompson is already turning heads with her performances for both club and country. Saturday’s display was another example of her growing confidence and chemistry with teammates like Rodman.
Together, Rodman and Thompson may well form the attacking core of the USWNT for years to come — a terrifying prospect for opposing teams.
Ben Shelton: From Court Star to Sideline Supporter
Shelton’s tennis achievements have been impressive — two ATP titles, two Grand Slam semifinal appearances, and a breakout 2023 season.3
But his presence off the court is becoming just as meaningful. His open support for Rodman shows the softer side of a player known for intensity and flair on the court.
In interviews, Shelton has spoken about how he finds motivation from other athletes, particularly those he admires. Rodman clearly falls into that category — and their relationship seems to be built on mutual admiration.
It’s not every day you see a tennis star reposting soccer highlights with a lock emoji, but that’s part of what makes this duo so compelling.
A Win for the Team, a Moment for the Couple
The USWNT’s 2-0 win over Brazil was another strong performance in a year filled with anticipation.
With Olympic momentum still fresh, the team is building toward greater dominance, integrating young talent with experienced leaders. Trinity Rodman, with her blend of youth and experience, embodies that transition perfectly.
Off the pitch, her bond with Shelton continues to blossom. Saturday’s goal and Shelton’s reaction combined for a moment that fans of both tennis and soccer won’t soon forget.
What’s Next for Rodman and Shelton?
For Trinity Rodman, the next few months will be crucial as the USWNT prepares for additional friendlies and competitive fixtures.
Maintaining form and fitness will be top priorities — and if she keeps scoring like this, her place in the starting XI is all but assured.
Meanwhile, Ben Shelton is gearing up for the clay season on the ATP Tour, with the French Open on the horizon.
The grind of the tennis calendar is relentless, but Shelton has shown he’s more than capable of competing with the sport’s best.
As both athletes chase glory in their respective fields, their relationship remains a strong foundation. Whether it’s a goal on the soccer pitch or a win on the tennis court, it’s clear they’re celebrating each other every step of the way.
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Trinity Rodman Reflects on Going Public with Ben Shelton
A Power Couple Emerges
Trinity Rodman, one of the brightest stars in American soccer, recently confirmed her relationship with rising tennis talent Ben Shelton.
This announcement, though unexpected by some fans, was met with widespread positivity across social media.
Rodman, just 22 years old, has already carved a name for herself in the NWSL and the USWNT, while Shelton, 21, is considered one of the most promising young players in men’s tennis.
The couple made headlines when they went public, sharing glimpses of their relationship through social media posts. A few days later, Rodman opened up about her feelings in an interview with ESPN, saying:
“I mean, I am just another person in a relationship that people know about it, so yeah, I’m obviously very happy, and hopefully some of the world is happy, but, yeah, I think you know, it’s in the public eye, and I can’t really do much about it.”
Navigating Love in the Public Eye
Rodman’s candid reflection on the attention surrounding her relationship shows a level of maturity beyond her years.
Being in the spotlight is nothing new to her—after all, she is the daughter of NBA Hall of Famer Dennis Rodman and has grown up with media attention.
However, she has managed to establish her own identity, becoming a role model and standout performer in professional women’s soccer.
Now, sharing her private life publicly, she acknowledges both the joys and challenges of living under the public’s watchful eye. Despite the intense scrutiny, Rodman’s attitude is clear: she’s happy and embracing the moment.
Ben Shelton: Rising Star with a Humble Heart
Ben Shelton has rapidly risen through the ranks in the tennis world, turning professional in 2022 after a stellar collegiate career at the University of Florida.
His powerful serve, fearless game style, and youthful energy have captured the attention of fans and experts alike.
Though his recent appearance at the 2025 Miami Open was disappointing—he lost his opening match to Hong Kong’s Coleman Wong—Shelton remains focused. Up next for him is the Monte-Carlo Masters, where he faces a tough opponent in Alejandro Davidovich Fokina.
Despite his recent setback on court, Shelton’s personal life is giving him plenty to smile about. His relationship with Rodman marks a wholesome intersection of two elite American athletes, and the couple seems grounded and supportive of each other’s careers.
Trinity Rodman: Promotion
Trinity Rodman promoting DICK’S Sporting Goods’ new collection adidas F50 Mid: Built for women.
View this post on Instagram
How It All Began: From Fans to Flames
While neither Rodman nor Shelton has publicly shared many details about how they met, it’s believed that their connection began through mutual admiration of each other’s achievements.
Both athletes are part of a new generation of American sports stars—highly skilled, media-savvy, and unafraid to express their personalities.
Rumors of their relationship first started circulating when fans noticed interactions on social media, including likes, comments, and photos.
Eventually, a series of cozy, happy snapshots shared online made it official, drawing warm reactions from fans across both sports communities.
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