American rugby player Ilona Maher, an Olympic bronze medalist, has been commemorated with her own Barbie doll, transitioning from the rugby field to the toy market. Maher, a prominent figure in her sport, gained popularity through her social media presence during her recent Olympic campaigns, elevating the profile of rugby in the United States. She clinched a bronze medal with the U.S. team in Paris. The specially crafted Maher Barbie doll, produced by Mattel, will hit stores next year.
Emphasizing body positivity, Maher ensured that the Barbie doll exemplifies her physique, featuring her distinctive red lipstick, braided ponytail, broad shoulders, and muscular build. Maher expressed her excitement about the doll, appreciating the attention to detail, including knee pads and accurate replicas of her Adidas cleats. Alongside Maher, three other rugby stars – Ellie Kildunne of England, Portia Woodman-Wickliffe of New Zealand, and Nassira Konde of France – will also have dolls created in their likeness to commemorate International Day of the Girl, but Maher’s doll will be the only one available at retailers in fall 2026.
Maher highlighted the significance of reshaping beauty ideals through the representation of diverse body types in toys, aiming to influence young girls’ perceptions of beauty. Encouraging inclusivity and self-acceptance, Maher aspires for her Barbie to inspire girls to embrace various body shapes and redefine conventional standards of beauty.
