Dennis Rodman, the legendary five-time NBA champion, has issued a heartfelt apology to his daughter, Olympic gold medal-winning soccer player Trinity Rodman, after years of strained relations.
The apology comes in response to critical remarks Trinity made about her father’s absence during much of her childhood.
In a recent episode of the Call Her Daddy podcast, Trinity opened up about the emotional toll of growing up with a father who, while famous, was largely absent from her life.
“He’s not a dad. Maybe by blood, but nothing else,” she shared. “Hearing his voice is painful.”
Rodman, 63, responded publicly on Instagram on December 19, shortly after the podcast aired. In his message, the basketball icon expressed regret for not being the father Trinity hoped for but reassured her of his unwavering efforts.
“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,” he wrote.
He continued, “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 if it 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.” He ended the message with an emotional plea: “I always had one wish and it was I wish my kids would call me and come see me. Hopefully, one day I can get that.”
The strained relationship between Rodman and his daughter has been public for years, with Trinity sharing that at one point, she and her mother were forced to live in a car.
She also spoke about the chaotic lifestyle her father led, often hosting parties and enjoying the spotlight instead of being a stable presence in her life.
Despite these challenges, she has grown into a successful soccer star, earning 10 goals and 9 assists for the U.S. Women’s National Team and winning gold at the Paris Olympics.
Trinity recalled an emotional encounter with her father during her time with the Washington Spirit, where she was drafted at 18.
Rodman showed up unannounced at one of her playoff games, causing her distress. Though the moment ended with an emotional embrace, their relationship would soon lapse again into silence.
Now, despite their years of tension, both father and daughter remain hopeful that their bond might eventually heal.