Jutta Leerdam has found herself at the center of controversy at the Winter Olympics, after her decision to travel separately from the Dutch team sparked criticism and raised questions about her priorities.
The Dutch speed skater, who is competing in Italy, drew attention after documenting her private jet journey on social media, presenting a sharply different image from her teammates’ collective travel plans.
Leerdam arrived with an entourage, custom decorations, and personalized treats, creating a scene that some observers felt focused more on image and branding than on sporting unity.
Her flight featured orange themed displays, supportive messages, and her own image on screens, while Jake Paul commented “Time to shine,” reinforcing the sense of a carefully staged moment.
After landing, she reportedly used private transport to reach the athletes’ village, then posed for photos near the Olympic rings before beginning her training sessions.
Back in the Netherlands, the display quickly became a talking point, with critics arguing that her approach clashed with traditional team values and expectations.
Former footballer turned analyst Johan Derksen was among the most outspoken voices, questioning her attitude and lifestyle choices ahead of such a major sporting event.
“She should want it of her own accord. She’s already living like a millionaire, with private jets and everything,” Derksen said. “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.”
Leerdam has won multiple World Championship titles and claimed Olympic silver in 2022, proving that her success is rooted in performance rather than publicity.
But her Olympic preparation has not been without pressure, especially after a dramatic qualifying setback in the 1000m event.
She fell during trials, left the rink in tears, yet recovered to secure a place in the 500m and later regained her 1000m spot.
On New Year’s Day, she confirmed her selection online, signaling resilience despite recent turbulence.
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Meanwhile Paul continues to expand his influence in boxing and sports promotion, announcing that Most Valuable Promotions will host its first major British event in London.
The card, staged at Olympia, features a historic double main event headlined by Caroline Dubois against Terri Harper and Ellie Scotney versus Mayelli Flores.
The 27-year-old Scotney enters the bout aiming to become the youngest undisputed champion in British boxing history, adding significance to the event.
Dubois and Harper will meet in a 10 round unification clash for the WBO and WBC lightweight titles, drawing major attention from fight fans.
MVP has positioned the show as a milestone for women’s boxing, reflecting Paul‘s growing role as a promoter rather than only a fighter.
Elsewhere on the card, former undisputed champion Chantelle Cameron will challenge Michaela Kotaskova for the WBO super welterweight title.
Beyond this event, the wider boxing calendar remains crowded, with Tyson Fury, Conor Benn, and Fabio Wardley preparing major bouts.
Canelo Alvarez is seeking redemption after defeat, while Oleksandr Usyk faces mandatory title defenses in the heavyweight division.
Derek Chisora is also expected to return for what could be his final professional fight, adding to an already busy schedule against Deontay Wilder.
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