Mattel honors Venus Williams with her own ‘Barbie doll’ to celebrate her lifelong achievements

Apart from Williams, other players who were depicted as dolls are boxer Estelle Mossely, gymnasts Alexa Moreno and Rebeca Andrade, para-triathlon athlete Susana Rodriguez, former swimmer Federica Pellegrini , sprinter Ewa Swoboda, and soccer players Mary Fowler and Christine Sinclair . 

The vision behind Mattel’s campaign on Barbie’s 65th anniversary is to encourage girls to play sports and recognize the role sports play in one’s self-confidence and ambition. 

Venus Williams honored to be recognized 

Venus Williams is a legend of the sport, having played some of the most memorable matches since turning pro in 1994. Coming from a humble background, the 43-year-old and her sister Serena Williams, with their hard work, resilience, and never-give-up attitude, became the icons of the sport. After being recognized as a role model, Williams heaped praise on Mattel for their initiative. 

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. I’m honored to be recognized 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. Venus Williams said in a press release by Mattel 

Talking about her career, Williams has made it to the finals of the Australian Open two times (in 2003, 2007), and the French Open (in 2002), and won the US Open two times (2000, 2001). However, she ruled at the Wimbledon Championship in the 2000s.

The American won her first title at the SW19 in 2000 and defended it the next year. After winning her third one in 2005, she emerged as champion in 2007 and 2008. 

She has not yet bid adieu to the sport. Since the 2023 US Open, Williams had not played in any tournaments until January this year when she made her comeback in the Indian Wells Masters, where she failed to make progress beyond the first round. In Miami as well, she got knocked out of the Round of 128.