Dutch speed skater Jutta Leerdam, fiancée of YouTuber and boxer Jake Paul, has been labelled a 'diva' by critics as she prepares to compete at the Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina, Italy. The 27-year-old athlete, who boasts over five million Instagram followers and seven world titles, is set to race in the 1000m event today, followed by the 500m next Sunday.
Controversial Behaviour Sparks Backlash
Leerdam's actions have drawn sharp criticism from Dutch pundits and fans alike. Notably, she opted to travel to the Olympics via private jet instead of accompanying her national team. Additionally, she chose to watch the opening ceremony from her hotel room rather than participate with her teammates, a move that has fuelled accusations of diva-like behaviour.
Dutch sports commentator Johan Derksen expressed widespread frustration, stating, "Netherlands is starting to get a bit fed up. Her behaviour is that of a diva." This criticism comes despite Leerdam's previous statements emphasising her desire to be recognised for athletic prowess over appearance.
Athletic Focus Amidst Fame
In past interviews, Leerdam has clarified her priorities, saying, "The last thing I want is being known as the girl from Instagram or the girl that looks a certain way. I want to be known as the girl who is a world-class skater, and is a winner and doing a good job on Instagram." She added, "Speed skating is my number one and Instagram number two. It sounds super-cliched but I think brains bring you more in life than looks."
Her relationship with Jake Paul, which began via Instagram in 2023 and led to an engagement announcement in March 2025, has further amplified her public profile. Paul recently surprised her with roses and a supportive card ahead of the Games, reading, "I'm beyond proud of you."
Olympic Qualification and Events
Leerdam secured her spot at the 2026 Olympics after a tense qualification process, where she fell during trials but earned a reprieve for the 1000m event. She explained on social media, "Only nine Dutch women in total can qualify for the Games. I was one of the nine through my 500m. With one spot on the 1000m still available, the KNSB decided to add me to the 1000m!"
She will compete in both the women's 500m and 1,000m sprint skates, having previously won silver in the longer distance at the 2022 Olympics. Her performance is highly anticipated, given her track record and current form.
Lindsey Vonn's Tragic Crash
In a separate and heartbreaking development at the Winter Olympics, American skiing legend Lindsey Vonn suffered a devastating crash during the downhill event. The 41-year-old, who made a remarkable comeback after a partial knee replacement in 2024, was airlifted to hospital after lying motionless on the slopes.
Vonn had bravely competed despite a ruptured ACL before the Games, aiming for a storybook ending to her career. BBC commentator Chemmy Alcott emotionally described the scene, saying, "When we thought about the end of this story, we never believed that it would end in her in a clump at the side of the piece, not moving."
Alcott highlighted the immense risks Vonn faced, noting, "The risk was really really high for her to take on the G-force of this downhill. Her body will not be able to withstand that." The incident has cast a shadow over the Olympics, with global audiences expressing concern for Vonn's recovery.
As the Games continue, all eyes remain on both Leerdam's performance under scrutiny and updates on Vonn's condition, underscoring the highs and lows of elite winter sports competition.
