Gold medallist, Dina Asher-Smith, has today been honoured by Barbie with a one-of-a-kind doll created in her likeness.

Asher-Smith has been unveiled as a Barbie 'Shero' as the toy brand honours her accomplishments in a bid to inspire the next generation.

Earlier this year, Barbie released their female Olympian collection which celebrate the five new sports that have been introduced to this year's Olympic schedule, and now, ahead of International Women's Day, Britains fastest-ever woman is being honoured as Barbie's next influential role model.

The four-time European Champion said, "I’m so proud to have my own one-of-a-kind Dina Barbie doll. It’s an honour to work with Barbie as a ‘Shero’ and work together to inspire future champions!"

"Growing up, sportswomen were less visible in the media and there is still a gap when it comes to women’s sports, which is why representation is so important. For Barbie to champion female athletes and different sports shows future generations that anything is possible. I hope little girls will see my doll and be inspired to take up and continue to enjoy sports! There are so many amazing things have happened because of my love for running, but having my own Barbie is definitely up there," added Asher-Smith.

In 2015, the toy manufacturer launched the girl empowerment brand, The Barbie Dream Gap Project, a continuing initiative that intends to give young girls the guidance and support they need to 'believe that they can be anything'.

This year, The Barbie Dream Gap Project has focussed on female role models in sport to help close the 'Dream Gap' - when girls start to doubt their ability to achieve their dreams. Research undertook by Barbie shows that when girls play sports, they report high levels of confidence which helps increase their self-belief.

Since 2015, The Barbie Dream Gap Project has honoured a total of 50 women, each with their own doll. They've also encouraged purposeful play, donated funds to the Women of the World Foundation and conducted research in collaboration with NYU to help determine the issues that hinder girls from reaching their potential.

Lisa McKnight, SVP Barbie and Global Head of Dolls said, "As the original girl empowerment brand, Barbie is dedicated to shining a spotlight on powerful, diverse role models to inspire the limitless potential in every girl."

As sportswomen continue to set new records and take centre stage around the world, we are proud to honour these amazing women by amplifying their stories and achievements with dolls in their likeness. In an effort to close the Dream Gap, we have a responsibility to show girls they can be anything on and off the field, court, mat and beyond."