Trinity Rodman Dominates the Field, Earns Sports Illustrated's NWSL MVP of the Month Honor

Trinity Rodman Dominates the Field, Earns Sports Illustrated's NWSL MVP of the Month Honor

When asked about the secret behind her success, Trinity Rodman keeps her answer straightforward.

"[Happiness and confidence] help me bring the best version of myself and, as a result, I play free soccer and don't overthink the things and actions I'm good at," says Rodman. 

Rodman put on a spectacular display throughout July, netting five goals — three of which proved to be match-winners — and adding a match-winning assist for the Washington Spirit. The club closed out July with a 5-1-0 record in the National Women's Soccer League, a run that included the Spirit's first climb to the top of the standings since 2023. Rodman was awarded the NWSL's Player of the Month for July, simultaneously becoming the youngest player in league history to make 100 career regular-season starts.

Earning her spot ⭐️

After a 5 goal campaign last month, Trinity Rodman has earned July Player of the Month honors! pic.twitter.com/B9x01K0XhD

The Spirit are currently embroiled in a fierce race for the prestigious NWSL Shield. Heading into the Aug. 14 fixtures, the Spirit sit second in the table with 36 points, trailing Gotham FC, who lead with 40 points. Gotham also defeated the Spirit in last season's NWSL Championship, adding extra motivation to an already determined Spirit squad. 

Rodman understands that leaning on her chemistry with teammates will be essential to claiming silverware in 2026.

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"I think my connection with everyone—honestly, I feel like I've gotten to a place with almost everyone in the lineup to where I can initiate a movement or run and they know when and how to find me," says Rodman. "I'm lucky to have such talented players around me as well."

With an international break on the horizon in just a few months, this stretch is pivotal for Rodman to deliver for both club and country. She'll be pushing for a U.S. women's national team call-up in October and, ultimately, a place on the squad for next summer's 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup. 

For now, though, her attention is firmly on guiding her team back to the NWSL final, which is set to be held at the Spirit's home ground, Audi Field. 

"I hope I continue to build on the clinical finishes and focus in the final third, as well as not letting one moment slip defensively," says Rodman. "That can make or break winning a game and potentially a championship."

Jenna Tonelli

Jenna Tonelli is a writer for Sports Illustrated Soccer. She is passionate about women's soccer, particularly the NWSL, USWNT, and the Italian women's national team. When not thinking about soccer, Jenna can be found drinking iced coffee and rooting for the Buffalo Bills.

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