Speed Skating Star Leerdam Wins Gold As Fiancé Jake Paul Watches On

Jutta Leerdam claimed the Netherlands’ first gold medal of the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics with victory in the women’s 1000m, setting a new Olympic record in the process.

Leerdam, who won silver at Beijing 2022, delivered under heavy expectation at the temporary speed skating venue at Rho Fiera in Milan. As she crossed the line, emotion spilled over – with tears from the 27-year-old and from her fiancé, boxer and influencer Jake Paul, who was watching from the second row of the stands.

Paul, who has been engaged to Leerdam since last year, travelled from the United States to support her and was visibly emotional as she secured gold ahead of teammate Femke Kok in a Dutch one-two.

Victory Came After a Punishing Buildup

The result caps a demanding build-up to the Games for Leerdam. She only secured her place at Milan-Cortina 2026 via a discretionary selection after crashing during qualification, making the win all the more significant.

Speaking afterwards, Leerdam praised Paul and her family for their support throughout the season. “He has supported me a lot more and has come to many of my races, so I’m very grateful,” she said. “Also, my family. I’m just so grateful for the support system around me.”

Despite the attention surrounding her high-profile relationship, Leerdam’s record in the sport stands on its own. Alongside this Olympic title, she now holds two world championships and three European titles in the 1000m.

She admitted the pressure of expectation played a part in the emotional aftermath.
“This was really something that I was still missing,” Leerdam said. “So it feels very complete. It feels surreal.”