Ben Shelton recently shared insights into why his girlfriend, Trinity Rodman, was surprised by certain aspects of tennis culture during matches he played. Rodman, a standout player for the USWNT soccer team, attended several of Shelton’s matches throughout the European clay court season, gaining firsthand exposure to how different tennis environments can be compared to team sports. This contrast particularly caught her off guard.
Trinity Rodman Finds Tennis Culture Strikingly Different from Team Sports
During an interview with Tennis Channel’s Second Serve, Shelton discussed Rodman’s reaction to witnessing tennis matches, offering a glimpse into how the sport’s culture contrasts with what she is accustomed to in soccer. Shelton explained that the atmosphere in tennis is less socially intertwined, especially among competitors.
“Yeah. It’s been pretty cool. It’s obviously a lot different atmosphere. When you’re on a team, all the people are kind of like your best friends.”
—Ben Shelton, Tennis Player
He described how Rodman was particularly surprised by the way singles players often avoid extended conversations with each other due to the strong competitive nature inherent in tennis. Additionally, she noticed that tennis teams tend to keep to themselves rather than interacting much with other groups.
“She’s come to the tennis events and kind of been like, ‘Oh! Why do none of the girls talk to each other?’ or like, ‘Why does the team like, no one is really saying anything to each other or kind of just doing their own thing within their team?’ She’s kind of been surprised by that,”
—Ben Shelton, Tennis Player
Unique Dynamics Between Competitors and Friends on the Tennis Circuit
Shelton also reflected on his friendship with fellow tennis player Frances Tiafoe, highlighting a distinctive aspect of tennis where athletes balance camaraderie with rivalry. Even as competitors, Shelton and Tiafoe enjoy spending time together and sharing moments of levity during tournaments.
“I’ve been like, ‘Yeah I guess it’s different than normal sports because all the people you’re hanging out with are also your competitors.’ And on the other hand, you have me and Foe cracking jokes all the time. So, it’s a funny dynamic. But yeah, being able to go to some of her soccer games and her coming to some of mine has been cool, to kind of see the different crossovers within the sports,”
—Ben Shelton, Tennis Player
Rodman joined Shelton recently in Paris, where he competed in the 2025 French Open, providing an opportunity for her to experience one of tennis’s most prestigious events in person.
Ben Shelton’s Performance at the 2025 French Open and Trinity Rodman’s Support
At the 2025 French Open, Shelton advanced to the fourth round, securing important victories over Lorenzo Sonego and Matteo Gigante. His run ended when he faced Carlos Alcaraz, the eventual champion, who outplayed Shelton in the later sets of their match. Trinity Rodman was on hand to witness this high-level tennis battle, observing both players’ skill and determination.
While the match was tightly contested early on, with both Shelton and Alcaraz sharing the first two sets, the Spaniard took command in the third and fourth sets, ultimately eliminating Shelton from the tournament. Despite the loss, Shelton’s performance was a strong showing at one of tennis’s four Grand Slam events.
Looking Ahead: Shelton’s Preparation for Wimbledon and Upcoming Events
Following his French Open exit, Shelton has already begun focusing on the upcoming Wimbledon Championships, preparing to transition from clay courts to grass. At the time of reporting, he is competing at the Stuttgart Open, an ATP 250 grasscourt tournament, where he is seeded No. 3 and has received a first-round bye. His opening match against Pierre-Hugues Herbert marks the start of his grass season campaign.
The mutual support between Shelton and Rodman continues to highlight the unique intersections between their respective sports, providing each with insight into different athletic cultures and environments. As Shelton progresses through the tennis calendar, Rodman’s attendance at events offers a bridge between tennis and soccer, showcasing their shared passion for competitive sports.