New Delhi: Famous doll-maker Mattel has teamed up with the Japanese tennis star to launch a line of Naomi Osaka Barbie dolls ahead of the upcoming Tokyo Olympics.
The Games will be organized in Tokyo from July 23 to August 8.
The tennis player, who has used her position to address issues like police brutality and racial injustice, has now launched the iconic doll line under Barbie’s Role Model collection to inspire young girls. The collection is based on role models from various professions.
The Barbie Role Model collection replicates Naomi’s 2020 Australian Open outfit, hairstyle, and racquet. The dolls don Nike’s flared white A-line skirt, a pink and blue tank top with matching spandex shorts, a white bandana, blue shoes, and her Yonex tennis racquet.
Osaka took to Instagram to share the doll along with the caption, “I hope every child is reminded that they can and do anything. It is like seeing a dream of mine come to life, having your own Barbie and potentially seeing little kids playing with it.”
“It’s such an honor to be a part of the Barbie Role Model series and to remind young girls that they can make a difference in the world. I want young girls everywhere to feel empowered to dream big,” the 23-year old said in an official statement.
In a statement by Mattel, she said, “I want young girls everywhere to feel empowered to dream big and to know that if they believe in themselves that anything is possible.”
The World No.2 tennis player had earlier teamed up with Mattel in 2019 as Barbie Shero Dolls collection.
(Avya Mathur)