Rodrigo Rodriguez Gil is widely known as the former husband of Penny Taylor, a retired WNBA star and Olympic gold medalist. He played professionally in Brazil and Italy, and later stepped away from public life completely.
Rodrigo’s story is one of calm strength. He wasn’t the kind of athlete who needed attention. He built his career quietly, loved deeply, and then chose to live a private life. His journey is simple but meaningful.
In this article, we explore everything about Rodrigo Rodriguez Gil his early life, family background, full volleyball career, relationship with Penny Taylor, key life events, and where he is now. This is the full story behind the name that quietly left a lasting impression.
Important Facts About Rodrigo Rodriguez Gil
- 👤 Full Name: Rodrigo Rodriguez Gil
- 🎂 Date of Birth: July 20, 1978
- 🌎 Nationality: Brazilian
- 📏 Height: 196 cm (6’5″)
- 🏐 Spike Reach: 345 cm
- 🛡️ Block Reach: 325 cm
- 🎯 Position: Outside Hitter
- 📅 Professional Debut: 1999
🏆 Notable Clubs:
- 🇧🇷 São Paulo FC (Brazil)
- 🇮🇹 Pony Express Torino (Italy)
- 🇮🇹 Conad Forlì (Italy)
- 🇮🇹 Samia Schio Sport (Italy)
- 🇮🇹 Giotto Padova (Italy)
- 🇮🇹 Edilesse Cavriago (Italy)
- 💍 Marriage: Penny Taylor (2005–2008)
- 👶 Children: None
- 🕊️ Current Status: Retired, living a private life
Early Life and Family
Rodrigo Rodriguez Gil was born on July 20, 1978, in Brazil, a country where volleyball is a big part of everyday life.
Not much is known about his early years. But people who knew him say he was a tall, quiet boy who stayed focused and kind. He wasn’t loud or flashy, just calm and strong. His love for the game likely began in small gyms or schoolyards, like many Brazilian athletes.
His family was believed to be close and supportive, the kind that worked hard but didn’t need recognition. That quiet strength helped shape who Rodrigo became.
Career in Volleyball
Starting in Brazil
Rodrigo began his pro volleyball career in 1999 with São Paulo FC, one of Brazil’s respected clubs. He played as an outside hitter, a position that needs quick moves, smart thinking, and lots of energy. Rodrigo had all of that and more.
He was 196 cm tall (about 6’5”) with a spike reach of 345 cm and a block reach of 325 cm. He had the body to win matches, but what really made him stand out was how well he understood the game, he was never showy, but always effective.
Playing in Italy
By 2000, Rodrigo moved to Italy, where volleyball was becoming more and more popular. His journey in volleyball took him through teams like:
- Pony Express Kappa Torino
- Conad Forlì
- Samia Schio Sport
- Giotto Padova
- Edilesse Cavriago
Each team offered something different. But everywhere he went, he earned a good name for being reliable, smart, and respectful. Coaches trusted him. Teammates depended on him. He didn’t need to talk loudly. He proved himself through actions.
Rodrigo didn’t win major world titles, but he built a solid, respected career in both Brazil and Italy. He was consistent, loyal, and always improving.
Marriage to Penny Taylor
Meeting in Italy
While playing in Schio, Italy, Rodrigo met Penny Taylor, a rising star in women’s basketball. She was playing for Famila Schio, one of Italy’s top clubs.
They met far from home, but quickly formed a strong connection. Maybe it was their shared love for sports. Or maybe they just felt comfortable with each other. Whatever it was, they fell in love.
Wedding in Schio
Rodrigo and Penny got married in December 2005, in Schio, Italy. Their wedding was special. The ceremony took place in a 400-year-old theatre, and the party continued in a villa built in 1540. It had snowed heavily for two days before the wedding. Then, on their big day, the sun came out. Penny later said it felt like a sign from above.
Rodrigo’s brother Marcello and close friend Giba stood beside him. Her sister Heather and best friend Hayley stood with her at the ceremony. It was a small, emotional celebration full of joy and love.
Separation and Life After
Sadly, the marriage didn’t last. Rodrigo and Penny separated in 2008, just three years later. They never made public statements or gave interviews about their breakup. There was no drama. Just a quiet, respectful ending.
They didn’t have any children. Penny later married Diana Taurasi, another WNBA star. But her time with Rodrigo still remains an important part of both their lives.
Life After Volleyball
After his career ended, Rodrigo made a rare choice. He left the sports world completely. No coaching, no TV jobs, no podcasts and no interviews. He just disappeared from public life.
He doesn’t seem to use social media. There are no news articles or public photos of him now. Some people believe he returned to Brazil. Others think he stayed in Italy. But nobody knows for sure. And honestly, that’s part of what makes him unique. In a time when many chase attention, Rodrigo chose peace.
Character and Legacy
Rodrigo Rodriguez Gil’s life wasn’t filled with fame or big trophies, but it doesn’t have to be. He was strong, honest, and steady. He worked hard, gave his best to the sport, and stepped away when the time felt right. That takes maturity and strength not everyone has.
He didn’t become a worldwide celebrity, but he built a good life, both on and off the court.
Final Thought: A Quiet Goodbye to the Spotlight
Rodrigo Rodriguez Gil is a reminder that you don’t have to be loud to leave a mark. He showed up, gave his best, loved deeply, and when the time came, he chose silence over fame.
Not every legacy is written in gold. Some are written in quiet choices, in deep respect, and in lives lived with honesty. Rodrigo didn’t chase attention. He chose peace, purpose, and privacy. And maybe that’s the most beautiful kind of success.
