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Kristi Yamaguchi, the American figure skater, was recently honored by Mattel as the label launched a Barbie inspired by her. The Barbie doll recreates Yamaguchi's look from the Winter Games of 1992 and celebrates her historic win. The sale of the doll went live on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, marking the start of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month.
Apart from being a skating champion, Kristi Yamaguchi is also an author, and philanthropist. She became the first Asian American to win a Winter Olympics gold medal in 1992. Her graceful skating and determination continue to inspire young athletes today.
Mattel Barbie honors skating legend Kristi Yamaguchi with new doll
Mattel has introduced Kristi Yamaguchi's figurine as part of their 'Inspiring Women Series.' This Barbie doll series also features other amazing women like singers, aviators, and actresses. Some of the notable names are Celia Cruz, Bessie Coleman, and Anna May Wong.
The inspiring Yamaguchi Barbie joins the ranks of "trailblazing women throughout history" like Maya Angelou and Rosa Parks. This doll adds to a collection that honors diverse role models who have broken barriers and achieved greatness in their respective fields. Young girls can now see themselves reflected in these real-life heroes, reminding them that they too can reach for their dreams.
Mattel describes Kristi Yamaguchi doll as:
"A champion on and off the ice, she is the author of several best-selling children’s books as well as a fierce advocate for early childhood literacy. She’s a fitting addition to a series that pays tribute to courageous women who took risks, changed rules, and paved the way for generations of girls to dream bigger than ever before."
The doll is dressed in a replica of Yamaguchi's unforgettable outfit from the 1992 Winter Olympics. She is dressed in a black leotard with shimmery gold accents. This ensemble is styled with white skates and a gold ribbon for Kristi's hair just like what she wore for her gold medal performance.
Read more: 5 Best figure skater-inspired hairstyles for 2024
Talking about Matte Barbie's 'Inspiring Women Series,' Yamaguchi told NBC News:
“I think it’s important to see representation. I think growing up with Barbies and playing with them, you really did, as a child, use your imagination and create them to be whoever you wanted them to be.”
The figure skater also spoke to The Associated Press and mentioned:
"It's a huge, huge honor. I think a lot of pride comes along with it, not just recognizing the Olympic achievement, but also being recognized during AAPI Month."
Yamaguchi went on to say:
"Following in the footsteps of some incredible women that I idolize — Anna May Wong, Maya Angelou and Rosa Parks, it's hard to see me put in the category with them."
Read more: What are figure skating champion Amber Glenn's beauty favorites?
Kristi Yamaguchi Barbie Doll is available for purchase on Mattel's official website for $35.
