Dutch Speed Skater Jutta Leerdam Faces Backlash for Private Jet Olympic Journey
Dutch speed skater Jutta Leerdam has been branded a 'prima donna' and 'diva' following her decision to travel to the Winter Olympics on a private jet, separate from the rest of the Dutch national team. The controversy erupted earlier this week when Leerdam, who is engaged to YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul, documented her private flight to Milan-Cortina on Instagram, showcasing a lavish and personalised experience that has drawn sharp criticism from commentators and the public back home.
Lavish Travel Details Spark Outrage
Leerdam's Instagram posts revealed a highly customised journey, with the private jet featuring orange backgrounds and her picture on television screens, alongside custom flags and handmade cupcakes bearing supportive messages. Upon arrival, she and her entourage reportedly took a private car to the athletes' village, where she posed for selfies in front of the iconic Olympic rings before beginning practice sessions. This display of luxury has not been well-received, with many accusing her of behaving like a 'diva' and showing a lack of team spirit.
Strong Criticism from Dutch Analysts
Former Dutch soccer player turned analyst Johan Derksen did not mince words in his assessment, stating, 'She should want it of her own accord. She's already living like a millionaire, with private jets and everything. 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 noted the extensive promotional focus on Leerdam, commenting on the ubiquitous 'Support Jutta' messages along highways, which he suggested positioned her as the sole Dutch representative for the entire Olympic Games.
Leerdam's Background and Olympic Prospects
Despite the controversy, Jutta Leerdam is a highly accomplished athlete in her own right, having won World Championship titles and an Olympic silver medal at the 2022 Winter Games. Her relationship with Jake Paul has increased her visibility, but she has also built a significant social media following, with over four-and-a-half million Instagram followers, often sharing content from her competitions and personal life. On the ice, she faced a tense qualification process, initially crashing out of the 1,000m race she specialises in before securing a spot in the 500m event. After an anxious wait, the Netherlands' selection committee ultimately chose her to compete in both the 1,000m and 500m events at the upcoming games, as she announced on Instagram on New Year's Day.
As the Winter Olympics approach, Leerdam's actions continue to stir debate, highlighting tensions between individual celebrity and team dynamics in elite sports. Her performance on the ice will now be closely watched, not only for athletic achievement but also as a test of public perception amid the ongoing criticism.
