Dutch speed skater Jutta Leerdam has found herself at the center of a heated conversation after choosing to fly to the Winter Olympics on a private jet, separate from her national team.
While some see it as a personal choice, others have branded her a “prima donna” and a “diva,” questioning whether her actions fit the Olympic spirit.
Earlier this week, Leerdam, accompanied by her entourage, shared her journey to Milan-Cortina on Instagram.
The private flight included custom touches: flags bearing her likeness, handmade cupcakes with supportive messages, and even the jet’s television screen set to an orange background featuring her image.
Her fiancé, YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul, left a supportive comment, writing, “Time to shine.”
Arrival and Star Treatment
Upon landing, Leerdam opted for a private car ride with friends to the Olympic athletes’ village.
She made a point of pausing for selfies in front of the iconic Olympic rings, signaling her arrival to fans and followers alike.
While many cheered the spectacle, not everyone back in the Netherlands appreciated the display.
Former Dutch soccer player and commentator Johan Derksen did not mince words.
“She should want it of her own accord. She’s already living like a millionaire, with private jets and everything,” Derksen said.
“Her behavior is horrible to me, like that of a diva. If I were her coach, I wouldn’t tolerate that.
Gradually, the whole of the Netherlands is starting to get a bit fed up with her behavior.”
Similarly, De Telegraaf analyst Valentijn Driessen pointed out that Leerdam’s image has been everywhere in the lead-up to the Games.
“Everywhere along the highway you see: ‘Support Jutta, support Jutta,’” Driessen wrote.
“I think she’s the only Dutch representative for the entire Olympic Games.”
Beyond the Spotlight
While Leerdam’s romance with Jake Paul has amplified her visibility, she is far from just a celebrity partner.
The 27-year-old athlete has earned multiple World Championship titles and an Olympic silver medal at the 2022 Winter Games, establishing herself as a formidable competitor on the ice.
Born in the Netherlands, Leerdam’s talent has opened doors both in sports and in social media.
Often referred to by Dutch media as the “world’s hottest speed skater,” she has amassed over 4.5 million Instagram followers, regularly sharing glimpses of training, life with Paul, and glamorous getaways.
Her online presence has made her one of the most recognizable faces in Dutch sport today.
On the Ice Again
Leerdam’s journey to Milan-Cortina hasn’t been without challenges.
She experienced a stunning crash during Netherlands qualifying for the 1,000m race, leaving the ice in tears.
Despite the setback, she bounced back to secure a spot in the 500m event, showcasing her resilience.
The crash also meant an anxious wait for confirmation from the Netherlands’ Olympic selection committee regarding her 1,000m participation.
On New Year’s Day, Leerdam shared the good news with her followers: she had been selected to compete in both the 1,000m and 500m events, reaffirming her place among the Oranje athletes.
Balancing Fame and Competition
Leerdam now faces the dual pressure of performing at the highest level while navigating intense media scrutiny.
Her private jet arrival, social media prominence, and high-profile relationship have made her a polarizing figure — celebrated by fans, critiqued by commentators, and closely watched by the nation.
As the Winter Olympics unfold in Milan-Cortina, all eyes will be on Leerdam — both for her skating prowess and the larger-than-life persona she brings with her to the Games.
