Jutta Leerdam of the Netherlands has captured the gold medal in the women’s 1,000m speedskating event at the 2026 Winter Olympics, cementing her status as one of the sport’s greats. She blazed across the ice in a time of 1:12.31, setting a new Olympic record in the process. The victory marked a triumphant return to the pinnacle of the sport for the dominant Dutch program.
The podium showcased Dutch strength, with teammate Femke Kok securing the silver medal, while Japan’s Miho Takagi earned the bronze. The win was a crowning achievement in Leerdam’s decorated career, adding Olympic gold to her world championship titles.
The moment was made more personal by the presence of her fiancé, social media influencer and boxer Jake Paul, who was seen cheering from the stands. Her victory underscores a legacy of Dutch excellence in long-track speedskating and highlights the intense preparation and focus required to peak on the world’s biggest athletic stage. Leerdam’s record-breaking performance not only earned her a place in Olympic history but also inspired a new generation of skaters in the Netherlands and beyond.
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