“Kept Thinking My Father Would Come Back, But..”: Torn Alex Rodriguez Sought Inspiration From His Mother While Growing Up After Immense Strife

While most are familiar with Alex Rodriguez’s on-field accomplishments and high-profile romantic connections. Only a few are aware of his journey before he earned numerous accolades and became one of the icons of the sport. 

Growing up, Rodriguez faced more than just financial difficulties. With his father absent from his life, young Alex didn’t let these difficulties define him. Instead, he found solace and strength in his mother. He channeled all his love and affection for his father toward his mother. He preserved and drew inspiration from his love for his mother, using it as a driving force to reach greatness. 

Alex Rodriguez cherished every moment he and his mother spent together 

Without a father figure in his life, Alex Rodriguez channeled all the love and affection he had for his father into his bond with his mother, Lourdes Navarro. Despite her own struggles to work as a secretary and waitress to provide for her son, she never wavered in her love and support for Alex.

It’s clear that the athlete cherishes her mother deeply. To repay her sacrifices, Alex gifted her with a house and a car from his first million-dollar major league salary. And during the first few years of his MLB career, Alex would stay with his mom together during the off-season. For Alex, living with his mother was a joy and a source of comfort, making her one of his closest friends. He embraced their bond and cherished every moment they spent together.

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According to vault.si.com, in his own words, “I kept thinking my father would come back, but he never did,” he said. “But it was O.K. All the love I had for him I just gave to my mother. She deserved it. Sometimes people ask why I still live at home, and I say, ‘Why shouldn’t I? I like living with my mother. She’s one of my best friends.’”

Alex Rodriguez’s childhood with his family

Alex Rodriguez’s love for baseball began at a young age. Instilled in him by his father, Victor, who was a catcher in a Dominican pro league. Born in New York City, Alex’s family, including his older brother and sister, had his mother and father. 

However, when Alex was in fifth grade, his father left the family. Leaving his mother to raise him and his siblings on her own. Undeterred by the challenge, Lourdes Navarro worked tirelessly to provide for her children and send Alex to a private school.

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Despite the difficulties, Alex’s mother’s hard work and sacrifices paid off when her son became a phenomenal ballplayer. In turn, he showered her with love and affection. A mother’s love truly knows no bounds!