Jutta Leerdam, Olympic Hopeful and Jake Paul’s Fiancée, Triumphs After Trial Fall

Jutta Leerdam, a Dutch speed skating athlete and Olympic hopeful, showcased her resilience in the 500-meter race on December 26, 2025. Competing at the Staatsloterij Olympic Qualification Tournament in Heerenveen, Netherlands, Leerdam finished second, clocking a time of 37.242 seconds. This performance came after a disappointing incident during the 1,000-meter event, where she fell on the ice.

Leerdam’s Performance at the Olympic Trials

In the 500-meter race, Leerdam trailed Femke Kok, who set a remarkable world record of 36.873 seconds in November. Despite her earlier fall, Leerdam demonstrated her determination. “I’m skating so well in practice,” she stated. “I feel even better now than I have in the past two years.”

Impact of the Fall on Jutta Leerdam

Leerdam’s fall during the 1,000-meter event had emotional repercussions. She left the ice in tears, highlighting the pressure athletes face in high-stakes competitions. However, her impressive performance in the 500-meter race instilled hope for her Olympic dreams.

Hope for Olympic Qualification

The national committee will determine Leerdam’s selection for the 2026 Milan Cortina Games. Her previous achievements include winning a silver medal in the 2022 Beijing Games in the 1,000-meter event, finishing behind Japan’s Miho Takagi, who set an Olympic record.

Future Aspirations

Leerdam decided to forego participation in the 2025 ISU Speed Skating World Cup in Hamar, Norway, to prioritize her Olympic preparations. As she navigates the trials, Leerdam continues to draw support from her engagement to boxer Jake Paul, which adds a layer of personal motivation to her ambitions.

• Event: Staatsloterij Olympic Qualification Tournament
• Date: December 26, 2025
• Location: Thialf, Heerenveen, Netherlands
• 500m Finish: 2nd place, Time: 37.242 seconds
• World Record Holder: Femke Kok (36.873 seconds)
• Past Medal: Silver in 1,000m at the 2022 Beijing Games

As the Olympic trials progress, all eyes will be on Jutta Leerdam to see if she can secure her place in the upcoming Games, reaffirming her status as a top contender in women’s speed skating.