England footballer Chloe Kelly, who grew up in Hanwell and attended Elthorne Park High School, has been honoured with a one-of-a-kind Barbie doll created in her likeness ahead of International Women’s Day on Sunday (8 March 2026).
The doll, made by Mattel, recognises Kelly as a Barbie “Role Model”. Mattel said she is the first Lioness to receive the honour.
Kelly, who played a key role in England’s recent tournament successes, is depicted wearing her championship-winning England kit from 2025. The 28-year-old is known for scoring decisive goals in major finals, including the extra-time winner against Germany in the Euro 2022 final and the winning penalty in the 2025 tournament.
The Lioness forward also scored the winning goal in England’s 2025 Euros semi-final against Italy and the decisive penalty in the 2023 Finalissima against Brazil.
Kelly said: “To have my own one-of-a-kind Barbie doll is something I’m incredibly proud of. Growing up, I dreamed about winning trophies and big moments in football, but I never imagined a different kind of milestone like this.”
She added: “I hope it shows young girls that they can grow up playing with Barbie dolls and with footballs, and that they don’t have to choose just one version of who they want to be.”
Mattel said the doll forms part of a global line-up of role models that also includes tennis player Serena Williams and astronaut Kellie Gerardi.
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