Ben Shelton is one proud boyfriend. The tennis star celebrated Trinity Rodman after his girlfriend signed a historic $2 million-plus annual contract with the Washington Spirit on January 22. She’s now the highest-paid female soccer player in the world.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Annual Salary: Over $2 million per year through 2028
- Contract Length: Three-year deal with the Washington Spirit
- Historic Achievement: Highest-paid female player in professional soccer history
- Ben’s Reaction: Posted support on Instagram Stories within hours of announcement
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The world No. 7 tennis player didn’t waste time celebrating his girlfriend’s milestone deal. Shelton, competing at the Australian Open, reposted Rodman’s announcement video to his Instagram Stories with a heartfelt caption.
“Love you and so proud of you,” Shelton wrote on January 22, showcasing their strong relationship support. The couple, who went public in March 2025, frequently attend each other’s major sporting events and share their relationship on social media.
Trinity Rodman’s Record-Breaking Achievement
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Rodman, 23, ended months of speculation about her future when she signed the landmark contract at BMO Field in Los Angeles. The 2024 Olympic gold medalist and NWSL champion becomes the first female player in league history to exceed $2 million annually with bonuses included.
The deal surpasses all previous women’s soccer contracts globally. Rodman will remain with the Washington Spirit through 2028, keeping her with the franchise that drafted her fresh out of high school in 2021.
Contract Details and Career Significance
| Aspect | Details |
| Annual Salary | Over $2 million including bonuses |
| Contract Length | Three years through 2028 |
| Previous Salary | $1.1 million annually |
| NWSL Ranking | Highest-paid in league history |
“It feels amazing, I’m very happy, I’m very blessed. I think it’s a monumental and game-changing moment right now. I can’t even describe in words what it feels like.”
— Trinity Rodman, Forward, Washington Spirit
How the High Impact Player Rule Changed Everything
The NWSL created a new High Impact Player rule in December 2025 specifically to keep star players like Rodman from leaving for European leagues. Teams can now spend up to $1 million over the $3.5 million salary cap on players meeting certain criteria.
This rule change proved essential. Multiple sources reported Rodman had offers from English WSL clubs that threatened to lure her abroad. The Sport organization’s intervention preserved American women’s soccer talent and set a precedent for compensating elite athletes fairly.
What’s Next for the Power Couple?
Shelton and Rodman continue their whirlwind year supporting each other’s athletic careers globally. The tennis star is competing in major tournaments while Rodman prepares for crucial Women’s World Cup matches in the United States.
Their relationship has become a symbol of mutual respect between elite athletes in different sports. Shelton‘s public celebration of Rodman‘s achievement demonstrates how power couples in professional sports inspire fans worldwide and break barriers together.
Michael Brown is a seasoned sports journalist bringing years of experience covering professional athletics and sporting culture. With a keen eye for breaking stories and player dynamics, this veteran journalist delivers in-depth analysis and exclusive insights from the world’s biggest sporting events. His passion for the game shines through in every story, keeping fans connected to the action both on and off the field.