Dutch speedskater Jutta Leerdam silences ‘diva’ accusations and celebrates gold medal victory with emotional hug in Milan

Dutch speedskating star Jutta Leerdam delivered a performance for the ages at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, leaving fans and critics alike stunned.

At 27, Leerdam didn’t just claim the gold in the women’s 1,000m — she did it in record-breaking fashion, crossing the finish line in an astonishing 1:12.31, setting a new Olympic benchmark on the Italian ice.

But it wasn’t just her speed that captured the world’s attention; it was her heart.

Immediately after the race, Leerdam sprinted toward her teammate and closest rival, Femke Kok, and embraced her in an emotional display of sportsmanship that melted any lingering criticism.

From ‘Diva’ Accusations to Genuine Affection

Leerdam has often faced scrutiny for her lifestyle choices.

Critics, led by former Dutch footballer Johan Derksen, have labeled her a ‘diva’ for opting for luxury travel arrangements, including a private jet complete with custom flags and gourmet treats, and for skipping the Opening Ceremony to watch from her hotel room.

Derksen had openly criticized her, saying, “Her behaviour is horrible to me, like that of a diva… Gradually the whole of the Netherlands is starting to get a bit fed up with her behaviour.”

Yet Monday’s embrace with Kok shut down that narrative.

In a viral moment on X, fans saw Leerdam set aside personal glory to console and celebrate alongside her teammate, proving that camaraderie can coexist with competition at the highest level.

A Career-Defining Gold Medal

This victory marks a significant milestone for Leerdam.

Four years after taking silver in Beijing, she now stands atop the Olympic podium, cementing her status as one of the greatest speedskaters of her generation.

Her path to gold, however, wasn’t smooth.

Leerdam faced a terrifying crash during Dutch trials in December, putting her place on the team in jeopardy.

Despite that, she bounced back with resilience, showing a mix of mental toughness and technical mastery that few can match.

Emotional Support in the Stands

The celebration wasn’t limited to the ice.

Jake Paul, Leerdam’s fiancé and a YouTube personality-turned-professional boxer, was in the arena witnessing the historic moment.

Paul, who had recently suffered a high-profile defeat against Anthony Joshua, was visibly emotional as he watched Leerdam secure the gold.

Sharing his joy on social media, he wrote, “Juttttttttttaaaaaaaa. I can’t stop crying… You did it my love. Olympic Gold. God is great and so are you.”

The heartfelt posts captured a personal side of Olympic glory, showing the human connections behind the medals.

What’s Next?

Leerdam’s triumph in Milan sets the stage for a remarkable trajectory in the remainder of the Winter Games.

With a gold medal already secured, she may target other events, potentially breaking more records for the Netherlands.

Fans will also be watching to see if her public image continues to evolve, as Monday’s gestures have shown a more grounded and generous side of the athlete.

Her influence off the ice could also grow, with opportunities for mentorship, endorsements, and advocacy for sportsmanship and mental resilience in elite competition.

Summary

Jutta Leerdam’s Olympic journey in Milan was a story of speed, courage, and heart.

She shattered the 1,000m Olympic record, silenced ‘diva’ critics with a touching embrace for her teammate Femke Kok, and overcame personal and professional obstacles to deliver her first Olympic gold.

Supported emotionally by fiancé Jake Paul, Leerdam has not only elevated her status in Dutch sports history but also reminded the world that true champions shine both in victory and in compassion.