Serena Williams has received another tribute to her tennis legacy, with Mattel unveiling a new Barbie Signature doll inspired by her memorable run to the 2005 Australian Open title. Released ahead of International Day of the Girl on October 11, the collectible celebrates the 23-time Grand Slam singles champion's achievements while highlighting her influence on a generation of young athletes.
The doll recreates the green-and-white outfit Williams wore in Melbourne more than two decades ago, complete with a cutout top, mesh detailing, white skirt, matching tennis shoes and sweatband. It also includes a racket and tennis ball, bringing one of the most recognisable looks from her career into the Barbie collection.
This is not the first time Williams has been honoured by the brand in 2026. In March, she received a one-of-a-kind Role Model Barbie as part of the company's global Dream Team, which celebrated eight women for their achievements and influence. The newly released Signature doll is a separate tribute designed to celebrate her sporting legacy.
The announcement also comes during an uncertain period in Williams' tennis career. After returning to competition in 2026 following nearly four years away, the American played at Wimbledon and the US Open, but has not competed since her appearance in New York in August. She has yet to give a clear indication of whether she intends to return to the court again.
Barbie recreates one of Williams' most memorable tennis outfits
The choice of outfit carries particular significance. Williams wore the green-and-white look during her successful 2005 Australian Open campaign, when she claimed her seventh Grand Slam singles title.
Her run included a dramatic semifinal victory over Maria Sharapova, in which she saved three match points before going on to defeat Lindsay Davenport in the final.
Williams welcomed the new doll, explaining that its significance goes beyond reproducing an outfit from her playing days. She hopes the tribute will encourage young girls to recognise their own potential, particularly those who may not often see themselves represented among sporting icons.
“Growing up, I didn’t see many girls who looked like me being told there was no limit to who they could become,” Williams said in a press release. “I want every girl who plays with this doll to see possibility—not just in me, but in herself. She can dream big, work hard, change direction, break barriers, and become anything she chooses. That’s what makes having my own Barbie so meaningful to me.”
The former world No. 1 was also pleased with how closely Mattel recreated her appearance from 2005, including a hairstyle that was an important part of the original look.
“Mattel nailed the outfit from two decades ago,” Williams said, adding that she had been particularly keen to retain her voluminous curls. “I was really adamant about having big curly hair and having a little color in the hair as well.”
The Barbie Signature doll became available on October 8 through Mattel, Target and other major US retailers, with a retail price of $45.
Serena Williams' Australian Open 2005 run
| Round | Opponent | Opponent ranking | Score |
| R128 | Camille Pin (FRA) | 106 | 6–1, 6–1 |
| R64 | Dally Randriantefy (MAD) | 67 | 6–3, 6–0 |
| R32 | Sania Mirza (IND) | 166 | 6–1, 6–4 |
| R16 | Nadia Petrova (RUS) | 13 | 6–1, 3–6, 6–3 |
| Quarter-final | Amelie Mauresmo (FRA) | 2 | 6–2, 6–2 |
| Semi-final | Maria Sharapova (RUS) | 4 | 2–6, 7–5, 8–6 |
| Final | Lindsay Davenport (USA) | 1 | 2–6, 6–3, 6–0 |
Williams has yet to clarify her tennis plans
The release arrives after an unexpected return to competition earlier this year. Williams resumed playing doubles at Queen's Club in June alongside Canadian teenager Victoria Mboko, before returning to singles at Wimbledon for the first time since the 2022 US Open.
Her singles comeback at the All England Club ended in the first round, where she lost to Australia's Maya Joint in three sets. Williams also received a wildcard to play women's doubles with her sister Venus, although the pair ultimately withdrew after Serena experienced knee discomfort.
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At the US Open in August, Williams teamed up with Carlos Alcaraz in the mixed-doubles event. The pair won their opening match before losing to Belinda Bencic and Flavio Cobolli in the quarterfinals, bringing her latest competitive appearance to an end.
Since then, Williams has not announced another tournament appearance or confirmed whether she plans to continue playing. Her return demonstrated that she was willing to test herself competitively again, but there has been no clear indication of what the next step might be.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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