Venus Williams gets Barbie treatment with important message
Venus Williams gets Barbie treatment with important message originally appeared on The Sporting News
Venus Williams will be getting a Barbie doll modeled after her for Mattel's iInspiring Women Series. The tennis icon's doll will be paying homage to her 2007 win at Wimbledon with her all-white outfit. However, while the athlete could have chosen any one of her wins, the 2007 Wimbledon win symbolized something deeper for the seven-time Grand Slam champion.
"Wimbledon 2007 was a huge moment in my career — not just because I won, but because of what was happening off the court," Williams told USA TODAY Sports. "Championing for equal prize money wasn’t just about me, it was about pushing for change for all women in sports. To see that moment honored with a Barbie doll is incredibly special. I hope it inspires young girls to speak up, believe in themselves, and know they have the power to change the game too."
Williams, who is the older sister of tennis legend Serena Williams, shared with the outlet that it was important for her to choose this outfit for the Barbie doll because of the message she wishes to spread throughout her platform.
Venus Williams’ new Barbie 🤩
(via @Barbie, @Mattel) pic.twitter.com/UleDQ4JKOH
— espnW (@espnW) August 14, 2025
"My advice to any woman, not just advocating for equal pay but also advocating for themselves, is this: always bet on yourself and keep pushing, no matter how tough it gets," Williams told USA TODAY Sports. "There’s so much power in believing in yourself. When you use your voice, you create space for others to speak up too and that can create real change."
Williams came back from a 16-month hiatus and earned a straight-sets victory over Peyton Stearns to become the oldest to win a tour-level singles match since 2004.
"Coming back to D.C. reminded me how much I truly love this game," Williams said. "I’ve always stayed true to myself and played on my own terms. For me, excellence has no limits — I play because I love the process, and fully embrace each moment."
Williams joins previous Inspire Series Barbies such as primatologist Dr. Jane Goodall, first female self-made millionaire Madam C.J. Walker, former competitive figure skater Kristi Yamaguchi, and more.
The icon's Barbie is set to release on Aug. 15.
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