We need to talk about the hate towards Jutta Leerdam
Let's talk about Jutta for a moment. Yes, the Jutta Leerdam. And although we usually know her for those dizzying lap times on the 1000 meters, lately it's been all about everything but her skating career. Jutta is in the spotlight on social media and - to be honest - she shines. But apparently not everyone can appreciate that, as she often faces a lot of criticism.
“Nothing is more Dutch than cycling without hands”
On King's Day, Jutta posted a now-viral - just like all her photos - snapshot on Instagram: she's cycling in an orange top (because it's King's Day) through Puerto Rico. Only... without hands on the handlebars. She used one hand to take a photo, while the other dangled relaxed by her side. And sure enough, the press jumped in: “Dangerous!” headlined Sportnieuws (read the piece here). “Worth a fine,” said other sourpusses. But Jutta, as only Jutta can, wrote underneath: “Nothing is more Dutch than cycling without hands.” And honestly? She's absolutely right. We've all jumped on a bike with a cheese sandwich in one hand and a shopping bag in the other at some point. And come on, we all take a bike selfie sometimes, right?
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Is it dangerous? Sure. Is it cool? Absolutely.
Of course, it's a bit thrilling - especially knowing that Jutta is in the middle of preparing for the Olympic season. We certainly don't want her to end up sidelined with an injury. But as always, Jutta just gets away with it. On Insta, hearts and praises are pouring in. No hate, no sermon, just: “Queen,” “Icon,” “Love this” - and rightly so. Okay, but let's be honest: even in Puerto Rico, cycling with your phone in your hands is just worth a fine of about 50 dollars. But hey - who are we to judge? Let Jutta be, she has to pay the fine, not us. Read here about the dumbest reason to get a fine.
From world champion to content queen
Let's be real: Jutta is more than a speed skater. From world titles on the 1000 meters to perfect Insta photos - this woman does everything at a top sports level. She's a world champion sprinter, has Olympic silver in her pocket, and casually shares her eyeliner routine as if it's the most normal thing in the world. She effortlessly switches from starting block to spotlight, from ice rink to makeup artist.
A bit about Jutta's love life
Oh, and then there's her love life. In 2023, she started something with none other than Jake Paul. Jake is a YouTuber and boxer. Jutta initially thought he was “an arrogant jerk” (her words), but guess what: he managed to win her over. They are now engaged and are turning both the American and Dutch media upside down. “He's super sweet to me,” Jutta said recently in an interview. In November 2024, the Netflix docuseries Countdown: Paul vs. Tyson was released. In episode 2, Jutta appears, where she talks about how they met: via Instagram. Of course. Here everything about Jutta's boyfriend.
Everything for Milan 2026
Despite her busy online life, her focus is entirely on the 2026 Games in Milan. Jutta trains like a beast and wants to defend her title in February - or better said: surpass it. She's spending a lot of time in Puerto Rico, where she trains in the heat, but on her Instagram, she also shows that she's enjoying the beach, complete with a summer body to die for. A summer body before summer? Here's how you do it.
Delightfully stubborn, that Jutta
What makes Jutta so wonderful? She stays true to herself. Besides all those perfect pictures on Instagram, she also shares her real life on TikTok. No filtered facade, but rather the chaos, humor, and crazy moments. She doesn't let angry tongues hold her back and does exactly what she wants - and that's what makes her so iconic.
@juttaleerdam Every time gets harder :( and no I can’t live there yet the Olympics is next year
And okay, sometimes we worry a bit about her. But secretly, she probably appreciates that too. If she does get a fine for cycling without hands and with her phone (in the Netherlands 160 euros, in Puerto Rico only 50 dollars - just saying), she'll probably pay it with a wink and an Insta Story to go with it.
Lastly: a bit about Jutta's eyeliner
Yes, because how do you create Jutta's hot wing? How do you get it as sharp as her skating turns? Start with a mattifying primer (because we don't want ice shine on your eyelids), followed by a creamy, black gel liner. First, draw a thin line along your lash line - keep it tight but subtle. Then comes the wing: draw it towards the end of your eyebrow, with a gentle curve upwards. Mascara? Yes please, and lots of it. Finish with a bit of highlight in your inner corner for that real Jutta look. Done - you're officially ready to shine like a skating queen with makeup skills.
Source: Instagram/JuttaLeerdam
