The new Barbie is actually a Kim – it’s supposedly modelled on Flemish tennis star Kim Clijsters, though you’d hardly think so to look at it. Like all Barbies, it’s only vaguely human in appearance. And unlike Kim, who’s always been a rather well-built, strapping Limburg lass, it’s stick-thin.

According to An Vandeputte, spokesperson for Eetexpert, the information centre for weight and eating disorders, the doll is a “missed opportunity to portray a realistic role model”. In the flesh, Kim is 1m74cm tall and weighs 68kg. The Mattel version has Barbie’s characteristic long, long legs and vacant smile.

“The doll is so thin that in reality she wouldn’t be able to walk to the net, let alone play tennis,” said Vandeputte. “It’s a shame that a beautiful woman like Kim Clijsters has been turned into an image so far from reality.” Eetexpert is vocal in its opposition to the artificially thin models presented by the media and the fashion industry, which lead girls to have negative self-image and eating disorders.

“We are calling very clearly for diversity in role models,” Vandeputte said. “Of course there can be slim dolls, but there should also be more rounded ones, too. You can be beautiful and happy in any body.”

Fortunately, the Kim Clijsters doll – complete with daughter Jada – will not be much exposed to little girls. Only one doll has been made, as a tribute by Mattel for Kim herself.