Tennis

Barbie Honors Venus Williams and Other Trailblazing Athletes with Inspiring Doll CollectionEL SEGUNDO, Calif. - Mattel, the iconic toy company, has unveiled an empowering initiative to celebrate the achievements of nine extraordinary female athletes through its Barbie doll collection. Among the honorees is tennis legend Venus Williams, who has shattered glass ceilings throughout her illustrious career.Joining Williams in this remarkable lineup are:* Gymnasts: Rebeca Andrade and Alexa Moreno* Soccer Players: Mary Fowler and Christine Sinclair* Boxer: Estelle Mossely* Swimmer: Federica Pellegrini* Paratriathlete: Susana Rodriguez* Track and Field Sprinter: Ewa Swoboda"Barbie's mission to inspire girls to reach their full potential aligns perfectly with my own journey," said Williams, a seven-time Grand Slam singles champion. "I'm thrilled to be part of this collection that celebrates the transformative power of sports."Mattel's Krista Berger emphasized the significance of this project in fostering self-confidence and empowerment among young girls. "Sports play a crucial role in shaping the next generation, instilling values of determination, resilience, and teamwork."Each doll in the collection embodies the unique spirit and accomplishments of its respective athlete. From Williams' signature tennis attire to Pellegrini's sleek swimsuit, the dolls capture the essence of these trailblazers.The Barbie collection not only celebrates individual achievements but also highlights the collective impact of women in sports. By showcasing the diversity and strength of these athletes, Mattel aims to inspire girls to pursue their dreams and break down barriers.

Billie Jean King and Sesame Street Celebrate International Women's DayOn International Women's Day, tennis legend Billie Jean King joined forces with Sesame Street to educate young viewers about the significance of the day. In a heartwarming clip, King emphasized the importance of celebrating women's achievements and advocating for equal rights and opportunities."Today and every day, we celebrate the achievements of women, past and present, and honor those who have worked to ensure that women and girls everywhere are granted equal rights and opportunities," King said.Rosita, the first bilingual Muppet on Sesame Street, expressed her gratitude to King for her contributions to empowering girls. King responded with encouragement, expressing her belief in the potential of all children.Women of Indian Wells Honored on International Women's DayAt the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, California, the women's tournament celebrated International Women's Day with a series of events. Three mothers who competed in the tournament—Victoria Azarenka, Angelique Kerber, and Naomi Osaka—shared their experiences of balancing motherhood with their tennis careers."I'm really proud to be a mom now," said Kerber, who recently defeated a Top 10 player for the first time since 2021. "Even if I'm winning a match or losing a match, there's someone, she's always loving and this is what gives you more energy than anything else."The tournament also hosted a panel discussion featuring American tennis player Emma Navarro, world No. 1 pickleball player Anna-Leigh Waters, and former WTA pro and current Tennis Channel commentator Chanda Rubin. The panel aimed to inspire the next generation of female athletes.WTA Stars Celebrate International Women's Day on Social MediaNumerous WTA stars took to social media to commemorate International Women's Day. Former singles and doubles world No. 1s Ana Ivanovic and Sania Mirza shared messages of empowerment and recognition. Current players including Katie Boulter, Madison Keys, Daria Kasatkina, and Sloane Stephens also expressed their support for women's rights and equality.