Naomi Osaka, the global tennis star, has partnered with the US-based toy manufacturing company Mattel.
The deal will see Japanese player Osaka, the winner of four grand slam singles titles, have her own line of Barbie dolls.
The move comes as part of Mattel’s aim to make its toy line more diverse and feature dolls based on different role models and professionals.
Mattel also has Barbie dolls modelled on US soccer player Alex Morgan and Olympic fencer Ibtihaj Muhammad.
Mattel said: “Barbie is committed to celebrating real-life role models, remarkable women who are breaking boundaries and inspiring the next generation.”
Osaka, presently the world number two, added: “It’s such an honour to be 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 bream big.”
