Mattel, the company that produces Barbie dolls, has honored Naomi Osaka with her own toy as part of their Role Model Series.
All girls love to play with Barbies, but rare are those who once become an inspiration for their favorite doll. Osaka’s influence has gone way beyond tennis and Mattel is the latest in a sea of companies who want to get a piece of the 23-year-old athlete.
The doll is wearing Osaka’s 2020 Australian Open outfit. It is the Japanese’s custom Nike dress from the collection inspired by the rock formations and continental shifts of pre-historic Australia. The doll also comes with a white Nike visor, light blue tennis shoes and a replica of Osaka’s Yonex tennis racquet.
The world No.2 Osaka said on Instagram:
I really hope every child is reminded that they can be and do anything. This is really seeing a dream of mine come to life, having your own Barbie and potentially seeing little kids playing with it.
After mentioning all Osaka’s major tennis accomplishments, Mattel added:
Known for using her platform to speak out about issues surrounding human rights and racial injustice, Naomi is a force, on and off the court.
Naomi Osaka Barbie makes a great gift for collectors, tennis fans and kids ages six years and up.
