“Every Child Is Reminded They Can Do Anything”: Naomi Osaka Unveils Her Barbie Doll

At just 23 years of age, Naomi Osaka is an inspiration for millions of people around the world. Although she withdrew from the French Open citing mental health issues, she has become a role model for future generations by taking a stand for various causes.

Ahead of the Tokyo Olympics, Mattel created an Osaka Barbie doll for the second time.

Mattel create Naomi Osaka Barbie doll as part of their ‘Role Model’ Series

Osaka started 2021 by winning the Australian Open in convincing fashion. However, her withdrawal after her first-round victory at the French Open drew various reactions from fans around the world. While many fans offered encouraging words, she made her first public appearance since the French Open at the ESPYs this past weekend for accepting the ‘Best Female Athlete’ award.

In 2019, Mattel created an Osaka Barbie doll to celebrate Barbie’s 60th anniversary. However, the reason this time around is different. As part of their ‘Role Model’ Series, Mattel created a second doll.

On the launch, Osaka tweeted, “I first teamed up with Barbie in 2019 and today we’re introducing the Barbie Role Model Naomi Osaka doll. I hope every child is reminded that they can be and do anything.”

The doll’s outfit is the same as Osaka’s outfit during the 2020 Australian Open. Along with the box comes a photograph of Osaka, with a powerful quote from the Japanese tennis star. “Don’t compare yourself to anyone because the path that you’re on is yours and yours only.”

READ MORE: Does Naomi Osaka Speak Japanese?

Mattel issue statement behind choosing Osaka for the ‘Role Model’ series

With Mattel launching their second Osaka Barbie doll, senior vice president Lisa McKnight admitted how honored Mattel felt to make this doll. In addition, she also mentioned Osaka’s power to inspire as the reason behind making this doll.

Her statement read, “We are incredibly honored to spotlight Naomi Osaka as part of our Barbie Role Model series. She has paved the way for future generations of girls to dream bigger, and through her unwavering courage and honesty, shown the world the importance of being your own biggest champion.

“Naomi continues to break boundaries on and off the court and is a powerful role model to fans everywhere.”

While it’s incredible to see Osaka‘s influence at just 23 years of age, it seems there is more to come. In addition, the Japanese star will return to on-court action at the Tokyo Olympics. While she is a favorite to clinch gold for her country, she will face stiff competition for top honors.

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