NEW YORK — The typically intense atmosphere of a US Open post-match press conference was hilariously upended on Tuesday when American tennis star Ben Shelton found himself being trolled by an unexpected questioner: his own girlfriend, Washington Spirit soccer phenom Trinity Rodman. The lighthearted moment provided a viral interlude during the tournament's second week, showcasing the couple's playful dynamic to the world.
Shelton, the 21-year-old rising star known for his powerful serve and exuberant "dialed in" celebration, had just secured a hard-fought 6-4, 7-6(3), 4-6, 6-3 victory over his compatriot Tommy Paul to advance to his first US Open quarterfinal. As he fielded questions from reporters in the main interview room, a familiar voice cut through the formal proceedings.
A Surprise Interruption
A reporter began a question by stating, "Ben, you've talked a lot about your team and the people around you. I'm wondering, what does it mean to have your partner, Trinity, here supporting you and what does that dynamic add to your life on tour?" Before Shelton could even formulate a response, Rodman, who was sitting in the front row of the media session, seized the microphone.
"I can take that one," she quipped, sending a wave of laughter through the room. Shelton, initially caught off guard, broke into a wide grin, shaking his head in amused disbelief as his girlfriend continued her impromptu takeover.
Rodman, the 22-year-old daughter of NBA legend Dennis Rodman and a key player for the US Women's National Soccer Team, playfully answered her own question. "It means everything. I'm his biggest fan, his number one supporter. He couldn't do it without me, obviously," she deadpanned, maintaining a perfectly straight face before finally cracking a smile.
Shelton's Amused Response
The 2023 Australian Open quarterfinalist, clearly enjoying the moment, quickly retorted with a laugh, "She's not wrong! No, it's amazing. It's cool to have her here. She's in the middle of her season as well, so for her to take time out to come support me means the world."
He went on to praise her understanding of the pressures of professional sports, highlighting the unique support system they provide for each other. "She gets it. She knows what it's like to be in the spotlight, to have high-pressure moments. We lean on each other a lot."
The interaction was a brief but telling glimpse into their relationship, which has become a subject of interest for fans of both tennis and soccer. The couple, who have been dating for over a year, are often seen supporting each other's careers, frequently sharing moments from their respective games on social media.
A Power Couple in the Making
The moment instantly went viral on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram, with clips of the exchange amassing hundreds of thousands of views within hours. Fans and commentators were quick to applaud the couple's chemistry and Rodman's confident, humorous personality.
This isn't the first time Rodman has shown her support in a public forum. She is a constant presence in Shelton's player box during big matches, often seen celebrating his winners with the same intensity she shows on the soccer pitch. Their relationship represents a new wave of sports power couples, each a superstar in their own right.
Key aspects of their supportive dynamic include:
- Cross-Sport Understanding: A shared comprehension of the demands of elite athletics.
- Public Support: Frequently attending each other's games despite busy schedules.
- Playful Banter: A relationship built on a foundation of humor and mutual respect.
- Social Media Cheerleading: Regularly posting shout-outs and congratulations for each other's achievements.
Focus Quickly Returns to the Court
After the laughter subsided, the press conference quickly returned to tennis, with Shelton fielding questions about his historic run and his upcoming match against Novak Djokovic, a rematch of their thrilling 2023 Australian Open encounter. Shelton acknowledged the challenge ahead but stated he was "excited for the opportunity and ready to compete."
The moment of levity provided by Rodman offered a humanizing break from the high-stakes tension of a Grand Slam. It underscored the importance of a strong personal support network for athletes navigating the immense pressures of their profession. For Shelton, having his biggest fan—and his biggest troll—in his corner seems to be a winning formula.
As the press conference wrapped up, one reporter jokingly asked if Rodman would be available for all future media duties. Shelton laughed and said, "I think we might have to negotiate that. She might ask for a sideline reporting job next!" The exchange served as a perfect, light-hearted conclusion to a memorable day for the American, both on and off the court.