French rugby sensation and Olympic silver medalist Nassira Konde is being immortalized as a Barbie Role Model, Mattel announced as part of its celebration leading up to the International Day of the Girl. The unique doll, crafted in Konde’s likeness, is one of four created for global rugby stars to inspire young girls to embrace strength and stay in sports.
Konde, known for her dynamic presence as a Centre for the French national team, joins an exclusive “Team Barbie” lineup of one-of-a-kind dolls alongside:
- Portia Woodman-Wickliffe (New Zealand): Two-time Olympic and World Champion.
- Ellie Kildunne (Great Britain): World Champion and 2024 World Rugby Player of the Year.
- Ilona Maher (USA): Olympic Bronze Medalist and prominent body positivity advocate.
In a significant move to challenge traditional beauty standards, Mattel has introduced an all-new, more muscular body sculpt for some of the dolls in this collection, reflecting the powerful, athletic builds of the players. The goal is to encourage girls to see strength, defined arms, and broad shoulders as traits to be celebrated.
Konde’s doll, like those of her international peers, is intended to break down the body confidence issues and self-doubt that often lead to girls dropping out of sports by age 14.
Nassira Konde, who earned a silver medal with the French Sevens team at the Tokyo Olympics, has been celebrated for “uplifting the next generation by embracing inclusion, skill, and fearless ambition,” according to Mattel.
“Barbie fundamentally believes that girls can be, and do, anything, and we are committed to breaking down the barriers that too often hold them back,” said a Mattel spokesperson. “By showcasing the stories of incredible role models like Nassira Konde, we are showing girls that the future of sports—or wherever their passion lies—is theirs to claim.”
While the dolls are one-of-a-kind role models, the Ilona Maher doll is slated for general release in 2026, marking a powerful statement on diversity in the Barbie product line. Konde’s inclusion highlights the rising global profile of women’s rugby and the importance of visible, confident female athletes from all over the world.
