Washington Spirit forward Trinity Rodman scored two goals, including a dramatic 94th-minute winner, in her team's 2-1 victory over the Houston Dash on Friday. Following her decisive goal, Rodman ran to her boyfriend, tennis player Ben Shelton, for a celebratory kiss.
Rodman described the moment as "bittersweet," acknowledging Shelton's presence at the game, which he attended after his unexpected first-round loss at Wimbledon. "Obviously it’s bittersweet. I wish he wasn’t here, but I’m obviously happy whenever he’s able to come and support me and I get to spend time with him," Rodman told Victory+ after the match. "I love that that little amount of time that he’s able to see me that I can put goals in the back of the net. So, I’m happy about that."
The couple has faced challenges in spending time together due to their demanding professional schedules. Shelton has been traveling globally for his tennis commitments, while Rodman is a key player for the Washington Spirit in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL).
Rodman's game-winning goal saw her cut onto her left foot and slide a shot into the bottom corner past Houston goalkeeper Jane Campbell. This brace marked Rodman's fifth goal of the current season. Shelton, who had been competing at Wimbledon, is expected to have some time off before resuming his tennis calendar. Last summer, Rodman was in attendance at Wimbledon, where Shelton reached the quarterfinals. Shelton has previously referred to Rodman as his "lucky charm" when she was present for one of his victories at the BOSS Open in Stuttgart, Germany.