Why is Trinity Rodman at Wimbledon? USWNT star in relationship with Ben Shelton
Shelton, 22, became the youngest American man to make the final 16 at three majors in one season, dating back to Andy Roddick achieving the same feat in 2004. He has also won each of his three matches so far by straight sets.
REQUIRED READING: Ben Shelton, Trinity Rodman make relationship Instagram official
The Florida native also shouted out his friends and family after his third-round win, which included another sports star in United States women's soccer star Trinity Rodman.
Now, the No. 10-ranked player in the world is looking for his first grand slam victory, with his furthest finish being the semifinals at the U.S. Open in 2023 and Australian Open in 2025.
Here's what to know of Shelton and Rodman's relationship, and why the U.S. soccer star is at Wimbledon cheering on Shelton:
Why is Trinity Rodman at Wimbledon?
Rodman, a forward for the Washington Spirit of the NWSL, has been at each of Shelton's Wimbledon matches. The two make quite the sports power couple.
The dynamic athletes went public with their relationship on March 18 after Shelton posted pictures to Instagram. Shelton even shouted out Rodman after his third-round win on July 5 over Marton Fucsovics.
"It's not just been me here, I have a great team. My parents are here, my girlfriend's here," Shelton said as the ESPN broadcast panned to Shelton's parents and Rodman in the stands.
Shelton also spoke with USA TODAY in April on his relationship with Rodman.
"She's great," he said. "I think we're both very happy. And yeah, it's been cool getting to know her and spend time with her."
Who is Trinity Rodman?
Rodman is a 23-year-old soccer player who's one of the best scorers for the U.S. Women's National Team.
Rodman, the daughter of Basketball Hall of Famer Dennis Rodman, scored three goals at the 2024 Paris Olympics to help lead the United States to a gold medal. She was also the youngest person ever drafted to the NWSL (18 years old) after going No. 2 overall to the Washington Spirit in 2021.
The Guardian ranked Rodman the No. 5 player in the world in 2024, with fellow American forward Sophia Wilson at No. 3 on the list.
Rodman's signature moment of her young USWNT career came in the knockout round against Japan, when she sent the U.S. to the semifinals of the 2024 Paris Olympics after scoring an extra-time goal to win 1-0.
Rodman was initially enrolled to play soccer at Washington State but opted to forgo her college career to play professionally in the NWSL. Her brother, DJ Rodman, played basketball at Washington State and USC.
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