Venus Williams is part of Mattel's new Barbie range. GETTY IMAGES

Global tennis star Venus Williams has been immortalised with her own Barbie doll in a new series designed to celebrate female athletes and inspire young girls to pursue sports careers.

Nine female sports stars were selected for the Role Model lineup, launched by Mattel in honor of Barbie's 65th anniversary. In addition to four-time Olympic gold medalist Williams, the series also honours paratriathlete and physician Susana Rodriguez, Manchester City women's footballer Mary Fowler, and other notable sports figures.

Williams' doll features the tennis star in a white terry cloth halter dress, a white visor, and lace-up trainers, complemented by statement gold earrings that reflect her love of jewellery. The doll also includes a tennis ball and a removable tennis racket, with movable limbs allowing her to assume various athletic poses.

Mattel's sportswoman-inspired range aims to spotlight role models within the industry and empower young women to achieve their potential, a mission that deeply resonates with Williams. 

"Throughout my career, I've always been driven by the idea of shattering glass ceilings and staying true to myself, and Barbie's mission couldn't resonate more deeply with that ethos," Williams stated. "I'm honoured to be recognised as a sports role model and join forces with Team Barbie to continue empowering the next generation of young girls to never stop believing in their dreams."







Williams is in distinguished company in the new Barbie range, alongside eight other remarkable athletes who have been immortalised as dolls. Spanish paratriathlete Rodriguez is included in the lineup, recognised for her trailblazing achievements in sports. Born with albinism, Rodriguez began running at the age of 10 and went on to become a record-breaking athlete. She also served as a frontline doctor during the pandemic, earning her a spot on the cover of TIME magazine in 2021.

"Being chosen as a Barbie Role Model is a source of pride for me," Rodriguez said. "I hope that girls, when they see me and my Barbie together, see an example of someone who despite having certain challenges can achieve their goals through work, effort and above all self-belief."

Man City Mary Fowler has also been honored with her own Barbie doll in recognition of her football achievements. The striker has emerged as a key player for both the Australian national team, the Matildas, and Man City in the UK. At just 16, she became the youngest player selected for the FIFA World Cup in 2019. Fowler's doll features her signature gloves, bubble braid hairstyle, football boots, and a ball.

The complete lineup of new Role Model Barbie dolls features footballer Christine Sinclair from Canada, boxer Estelle Mossely from France, gymnasts Alexa Moreno from Mexico and Rebeca Andrade from Brazil, swimmer Federica Pellegrini from Italy, and track and field sprinter Ewa Swoboda from Poland.