EL SEGUNDO, Calif. — Barbie dolls will honor tennis champion Venus Williams and eight other athletes as part of a project announced by Mattel on Wednesday.

The other athletes being depicted as dolls include gymnasts Rebeca Andrade and Alexa Moreno, soccer players Mary Fowler and Christine Sinclair, boxer Estelle Mossely, swimmer Federica Pellegrini, paratriathlete Susana Rodriguez, and track and field sprinter Ewa Swoboda.

“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,” said Williams, who has won seven Grand Slam singles titles.

The brand wanted to highlight “the impact of sports in fostering self-confidence, ambition, and empowerment among the next generation,” said Mattel's Krista Berger.

Williams, a trailblazer in women’s tennis, has not only achieved remarkable success on the court but has also been a powerful advocate for gender equality and equal pay in sports. Her inclusion in this special Barbie collection emphasizes her role as a role model for young girls and aspiring athletes.

Gymnast Rebeca Andrade, who made history as the first Brazilian woman to win an Olympic gold medal in gymnastics, and Alexa Moreno, a trailblazer in Mexican gymnastics, are also honored in this collection. Their dolls celebrate their groundbreaking achievements and inspire future generations to pursue excellence in sports.

Soccer players Mary Fowler and Christine Sinclair are recognized for their significant contributions to the sport. Fowler, a rising star from Australia, and Sinclair, one of the greatest goal scorers in international soccer history from Canada, represent the strength and skill of female soccer players worldwide.

Boxer Estelle Mossely, the first French woman to win an Olympic gold medal in boxing, is another athlete celebrated in this collection. Her success story exemplifies determination and resilience, encouraging young girls to break barriers in traditionally male-dominated sports.

Swimmer Federica Pellegrini, an Olympic gold medalist from Italy, is honored for her exceptional achievements in swimming. Her inclusion highlights the importance of perseverance and dedication in reaching the pinnacle of sports.

Paratriathlete Susana Rodriguez, who has excelled in multiple Paralympic events, is recognized for her incredible athleticism and determination. Her story inspires those facing physical challenges to pursue their dreams relentlessly.

Track and field sprinter Ewa Swoboda from Poland, known for her speed and agility, completes the lineup of athletes honored by this Barbie collection. Her achievements on the track symbolize the power of hard work and self-belief.

Mattel’s initiative to create Barbie dolls in the likeness of these athletes aims to celebrate their contributions to sports and empower young girls to dream big. The collection serves as a reminder that sports play a crucial role in building self-confidence, ambition, and empowerment among the next generation.

Barbie, a brand that has long been associated with inspiring girls to achieve their dreams, continues to evolve by celebrating real-life role models. By honoring these exceptional athletes, Mattel reinforces its commitment to promoting diversity, inclusion, and the pursuit of excellence in all fields.

The announcement of this special Barbie collection comes at a time when representation and recognition of female athletes are more important than ever. As these dolls hit the shelves, they will undoubtedly inspire countless young girls to pursue their passions and strive for greatness, both on and off the field.

Williams, who has been a prominent figure in the world of tennis, continues to inspire through her advocacy for equal pay and her efforts to break down barriers in sports. Rebeca Andrade's historic achievements have made her a national hero in Brazil, while Alexa Moreno's success has paved the way for future generations of Mexican gymnasts.

Mary Fowler's rising career showcases the global talent in women's soccer, and Christine Sinclair's record-breaking goal-scoring has cemented her legacy in international football. Estelle Mossely's triumphs in boxing demonstrate the strength and resilience required to succeed in a male-dominated sport.

Federica Pellegrini's decorated swimming career serves as a testament to her dedication and hard work, while Susana Rodriguez's accomplishments in paratriathlon highlight the incredible feats that can be achieved despite physical challenges. Ewa Swoboda's speed and determination in track and field continue to inspire young athletes to push their limits.

Mattel's decision to honor these athletes with Barbie dolls not only celebrates their individual achievements but also aims to encourage young girls to dream big and strive for greatness. The collection underscores the importance of representation and the impact that seeing real-life role models can have on the next generation.

As these Barbie dolls reach the market, they will serve as a powerful reminder of the potential within every young girl to achieve her dreams, regardless of the field she chooses to pursue. The initiative reflects Mattel's ongoing commitment to empowering girls and promoting a more inclusive world where everyone can achieve their full potential.