Labubu fever has taken over the world. Characterised by its cheeky toothy grin and pointed ears, the furry doll quickly became the It toy to have after Blackpink rapper Lisa was spotted with various iterations of it last year. In the subsequent months, K-pop fans and even other celebrities became enamoured with Labubus, and it wasn’t long before the rest of the masses followed. The realm of sports hasn’t been spared, either, with several athletes professing that they too, like to collect Labubu toys.
Olympic gymnast Simone Biles has dressed her Labubu collection in spiffy Gucci ensembles, while newly knighted football icon David Beckham has one hanging on his bag. Meanwhile, Inter Milan striker Marcus Thuram has been photographed with at least three Labubus in his possession.
Beyond gaining adoration among its famous devotees, the snaggle-toothed monster has sparked snaking queues and frantic fights over blind boxes at Pop Mart stores (its official retailer) around the globe, as well as headlined a Beijing auction earlier this month — where a life-size figurine sold for over USD 150,000. Its success has even turned Pop Mart CEO Wang Ning into China’s 10th richest man, with a net worth of over USD 20 billion.
In the high-adrenaline world of professional sports, it’s not uncommon for athletes to indulge in unique hobbies that offer a sense of calm, creativity, or simple joy. One of the most unexpected trends catching on among elite athletes? Collecting Labubu dolls. That’s right—these quirky, wide-eyed designer toys have stolen the hearts of stars like Simone Biles, Marcus Thuram, and several others. But why? Let’s dive deep into the whimsical world of Labubu dolls and uncover why these little figures have become a big deal in the lives of sports icons.
What Are Labubu Dolls, Anyway?
The Origins of Labubu
Labubu is part of the The Monsters series, designed by Hong Kong-based artist Kasing Lung in collaboration with POP MART, a Chinese designer toy company. Labubu is instantly recognizable thanks to its pointy ears, mischievous smile, and expressive eyes. The character blends dark whimsy with childlike charm—a combo that has captivated collectors around the world.
Labubu’s Rise in Popularity
Originally popular in Asia, Labubu’s unique aesthetic and limited edition releases turned it into a global collectible. Each series drop is met with frenzy, and scarcity drives up value—think of them as the designer sneakers of the toy world.
Why Are Athletes Like Simone Biles and Marcus Thuram Collecting Labubu Dolls?
1. A Way to Decompress
Let’s be real: sports careers are mentally and physically taxing. Athletes often turn to hobbies that help them unwind. For Simone Biles, who’s been open about her mental health struggles, collecting Labubu could offer a wholesome escape from the pressure of elite gymnastics.
2. A Nod to Childhood Nostalgia
Labubu’s design taps into a sense of whimsy and innocence—something many athletes, who spend their youth in grueling training, might crave. Marcus Thuram, a powerhouse on the soccer field, likely finds joy in the simple act of collecting something so playful.
3. The Thrill of the Hunt
Each Labubu release is like a mini treasure hunt. With rare editions and surprise unboxings, there’s a genuine adrenaline rush—something athletes thrive on. The challenge of collecting mirrors the competitive spirit they live by.
The Psychology Behind Toy Collecting
Collecting as a Form of Control
In a world full of unpredictability (especially in competitive sports), collecting gives athletes a sense of order and mastery. Organizing a shelf of Labubu dolls? Weirdly therapeutic.
Emotional Comfort
Many people form emotional attachments to objects. For athletes, who often live in hotels or training facilities, Labubu dolls can become comforting companions in an otherwise sterile environment.
Labubu Collecting in the World of Sports
Simone Biles: A Star with a Soft Side
Known for her jaw-dropping gymnastics, Simone Biles surprises fans with her love for Labubu. The contrast between her powerful athleticism and her fondness for cutesy collectibles adds another layer to her multidimensional persona.
Marcus Thuram: Balancing Grit and Goofy
The French footballer is as fierce on the field as he is fun off it. His interest in designer toys, including Labubu, showcases the lighter side of athletes who are usually seen as tough and serious.
Other Athletes Getting In on the Fun
While Biles and Thuram are two of the most prominent names, other athletes across sports—tennis, basketball, even MMA—are joining in. Labubu has become a symbol of playfulness in a high-stakes world.
The Social Media Effect: Sharing the Labubu Love
Instagram-Ready Collectibles
Labubu dolls are highly photogenic. Athletes love sharing their collections on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, where fans get a peek behind the scenes.
Fandom and Flex Culture
Just as sneakerheads post their latest Jordans, Labubu collectors showcase their latest rare finds. It’s a form of self-expression and community building.
Are Labubu Dolls an Investment?
The Resale Market
Like Pokémon cards or limited-edition kicks, some Labubu dolls can skyrocket in value. Athletes, many of whom are already savvy investors, see the potential.
Limited Edition Gold
POP MART often releases seasonal or artist-collaboration editions. These become instant collectibles and sometimes fetch thousands of dollars on resale platforms.
Labubu as Art, Not Just Toys
Designer Toy Culture
Labubu sits at the intersection of toy and art. Athletes with an appreciation for design or street culture often collect these pieces as miniature sculptures.
Showcasing Individuality
With hundreds of variations, Labubu dolls let collectors reflect their personality. Athletes can pick styles that mirror their moods, fashion, or even performance.
Building a Labubu Collection: A Starter Guide for Newbies
Where to Buy
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POP MART stores and official website
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Limited drops online (often via lottery)
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Resale sites like StockX, eBay, or dedicated collector forums
Tips for Beginners
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Start with a single series to avoid overwhelm
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Join collector communities for trades
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Beware of counterfeits—Labubu’s popularity has inspired knockoffs
From Hobby to Lifestyle
Collecting as a Personality Statement
For some, it’s just a cute toy. For others, Labubu becomes part of their identity. When Simone Biles shares a snapshot of her shelf, it sends a message: “I’m not just an athlete. I’m a human with quirky interests.”
Labubu in the Locker Room
Don’t be surprised to see Labubu perched on a gym bag or tucked inside a locker. These dolls travel with athletes, offering familiarity and fun on the go.
What This Trend Says About Today’s Athletes
Breaking Stereotypes
Gone are the days when athletes were expected to be all grit and no fun. Labubu collecting shatters that mold, highlighting that even world champions have a soft spot.
Celebrating Whimsy in a Serious World
In a profession where perfection is demanded, finding joy in something imperfect, silly, and strange like Labubu is a radical act of self-care.
Why You Might Want to Start Collecting Labubu, Too
If the world’s strongest gymnast and elite footballers are doing it, maybe there’s something to it, right? Whether you’re into art, nostalgia, or just love the thrill of collecting, Labubu might be your next obsession.
Final Thoughts: A Small Doll With a Big Impact
Simone Biles, Marcus Thuram, and other top-tier athletes remind us that joy comes in many forms—even in the shape of a quirky, grinning Labubu doll. These little creatures represent more than just collectibles; they’re a symbol of balance, personality, and the human behind the podium or the pitch. So, the next time you see a superstar athlete post a Labubu on Instagram, don’t be surprised. They’re just letting their playful side shine.
