Barbie dolls depicting tennis player Kim Clijsters and her daughter Jada

Kim Clijsters has become the first female athlete to be immortalised by the world's leading doll brand - Barbie.

The one-of-a-kind doll was unveiled on the opening day of the world's largest toy fair in Nuremburg, Germany, and saw Clijsters follow in the footsteps of the likes of Oprah Winfrey, Elizabeth Taylor and Marilyn Monroe in having a Barbie doll branded in her image.

The 26-year-old Belgian wears a tennis ensemble inspired by the one she wore when she won the final of the US Open in 2009, and the doll also comes accompanied by a minature version modelled on her daughter Jada.

"My family means everything to me, so I was really excited when I found out that Jada would also receive her very own "Jada" Barbie doll," Clijsters told her personal website.

"This is something that is very special to me and my family and we will cherish it for life."

They are true role models for girls of all ages, embodying the essence and values of Barbie Rosa Zeegers, Senior VP, Barbie International

Rosa Zeegers, Senior VP, Barbie International, said: "Kim not only embodies the values of Barbie, she is a reflection of today's women who manage successful careers while enjoying their families and celebrating motherhood."

The Clijsters doll was unveiled alongside ones representing HRH Princess Victoria of Sweden and renowned 'Harry Potter' author JK Rowling.

The tennis star added on her Twitter account: "I am sooo flattered by the doll Barbie has created for us, check out my website for photos. I'm really touched to join so many iconic women!"

Zeegers added: "The three one-of-a-kind Barbie dolls are an acknowledgment of the positive impact these women have made on our society and a tribute to their status as outstanding people.

"They are true role models for girls of all ages, embodying the essence and values of Barbie."

There was no word on whether a Roger Federer "Ken" would follow.

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