Jutta Leerdam is no stranger to the spotlight, but her latest Winter Olympic performance has elevated her global profile even further. The 27-year-old Dutch speedskating star clinched her second medal at the Games, solidifying her status as one of the sport’s elite competitors.
Leerdam surged to gold in the 1,000 meters, setting an Olympic record with a blistering 1 minute, 12.31 seconds finish. Her dominance in the event adds to an already glittering resume that includes 12 world championship medals — six of them gold — and two world titles in the 1,000 meters earned in 2020 and 2023.
She also claimed silver in the 1,000 meters at the Beijing Games four years ago and has been in commanding form this season, winning three of the four World Cup 1,000-meter races she entered.
A podium finish and a narrow miss
In Sunday’s 500-meter speedskating event, Leerdam once again found herself on the Olympic podium. She held an early lead but was edged out by fellow Dutch skater Femke Kok, who captured gold and set a new Olympic record in the process.
Kok’s victory prevented Jutta Leerdam from becoming just the third female speedskater to win both the 500 and 1,000 meters at the same Olympics. Still, the double medal performance underscores her remarkable consistency and competitive edge on the sport’s biggest stage.
Power couple in the public eye
Beyond the rink, Leerdam’s engagement to YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul has amplified her visibility worldwide. Paul was present to cheer her on during her medal-winning performances, sharing in the celebration of her achievements.
The pair announced their engagement on Instagram in March, and together they command massive digital audiences. Leerdam boasts approximately 6 million followers on Instagram, while Paul’s following exceeds 28 million.
Their relationship continues to draw attention both in sports and entertainment circles, particularly as Jake Paul remains vocal on social and political issues. Earlier in the Games, he was seen attending a women’s hockey matchup alongside U.S. Vice President JD Vance.
While headlines may swirl around their public personas, Jutta Leerdam’s accomplishments on the ice speak loudest — and in Italy, her double Olympic medal run has firmly placed her among the Games’ standout stars.
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