(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
US Rugby Star Ilona Maher Gets Her Own Barbie Doll to Promote Body Positivity
October 6, 2025
American rugby player and Olympian Ilona Maher is making headlines once again — this time, not for her performance on the field but for inspiring the next generation through her very own signature Barbie doll.
The Olympic bronze medalist, known for her strength, confidence, and body positivity advocacy, has joined three other international rugby stars in receiving custom Barbie dolls designed in their likeness.
Ilona Maher’s Barbie: A Celebration of Strength and Confidence
Maher, who won a bronze medal with Team USA at the 2024 Paris Olympics, said the honor was deeply personal.
“It’s going to feel really real when I get to give it to a young girl,” Maher shared. “For them to enjoy the Barbie and see themselves in it — that’s when I’ll probably have a tear in my eye.”
The doll — complete with Maher’s signature red lipstick, braided ponytail, and muscular build — reflects her dedication to promoting body positivity and redefining beauty standards in sports.
“We wanted to see my strong shoulders and athletic frame in the Barbie, and Mattel did such a good job,” she told Reuters. “She’s been hitting the gym!”
A Global Tribute to Women in Rugby
The new collection, created by Mattel, celebrates the International Day of the Girl and honors four inspiring rugby players:
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Ilona Maher (USA)
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Ellie Kildunne (England)
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Portia Woodman-Wickliffe (New Zealand)
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Nassira Konde (France)
Among these, Maher’s Barbie will be available in stores in fall 2026, making her the only athlete from the group with a retail release.
The dolls were unveiled in London this September, featuring realistic sports gear, including knee pads and replicas of Maher’s Adidas cleats.
Redefining Beauty for the Next Generation
Maher hopes her Barbie doll will inspire girls everywhere to embrace their unique bodies and find beauty in strength.
“Barbies have always been seen as the image of beauty and femininity,” Maher explained. “I want girls to look at this Barbie — with broad shoulders and strong arms — and know that strength is beautiful too.”
