American Girl Pickleball Doll Release: American Girl has announced that its 2026 “Girl of the Year” will be Raquel Reyes, a 10-year-old character who loves playing pickleball. The company revealed the new doll as part of its yearly tradition of introducing a contemporary character who reflects the lives and interests of modern young girls.
A Modern Doll with a Sporty Twist
Raquel Reyes lives on the East Coast, where she spends her time visiting the beach and playing pickleball with her best friend, Sloan. She stands out as the first “Girl of the Year” to focus on pickleball, a sport that continues to grow in popularity with children and adults alike.
Pickleball Gear and Style
Raquel Reyes comes dressed in a white pleated tennis skirt featuring hot pink and turquoise blue color blocks, a pink T-shirt that says Piney Point Pickleball, and a matching visor for sun protection. She also wears pink and white court shoes, pink knee-high socks, and a bow in her hair.
The doll includes a pickleball bag similar to those sold by brands like Trelle Co and comes with a water bottle, pink pickleballs, and paddles. The paddles have a small plastic attachment so the doll can hold them as if she is actually playing. Her outfit and accessories highlight the fun and fashionable side of the sport.
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American Girl’s Legacy
American Girl is a toy company known for creating 18-inch dolls that originally represented important periods in American history. Over the years, the brand expanded to include a “Girl of the Year” line that focuses on current trends and activities. Past dolls have included tennis players, but Raquel Reyes is the first to represent pickleball exclusively.
The company’s dolls have long been a status symbol for children and have inspired books and movies. Hollywood stars such as Olivia Rodrigo, AnnaSophia Robb, and Shailene Woodley appeared in American Girl films earlier in their careers.
Significance of the New Doll
Raquel Reyes reflects how pickleball has become a popular pastime for a younger generation. By featuring a character who plays the sport, American Girl is showing that pickleball is no longer just for adults but a fun and exciting activity for kids. The choice also points to the sport’s growing place in American culture.
News in Brief: American Girl Pickleball Doll Release
American Girl’s 2026 “Girl of the Year” is Raquel Reyes, a 10-year-old pickleball enthusiast from the East Coast. The new doll comes with a full pickleball outfit, accessories, and playable paddles, reflecting the sport’s rising popularity among children and marking a milestone for the American Girl brand.