Leerdam brings the Netherlands their first gold at the 2026 Olympics with an Olympic record

The women’s 1000m speed skating final became the first medal event in which the Netherlands topped the podium at the 2026 Winter Olympic Games. Victory in Milan was claimed by Jutta Leerdam, fiancée of famous boxer and influencer Jake Paul, who posted a time of 1:12.31 and set a new Olympic record.

Tension was sky-high throughout the race: Leerdam squeezed every last bit out of each lap, while her main rival and teammate Femke Kok stayed close behind. However, it was Jutta who proved faster at the finish — Kok was 0.28 seconds behind and took the silver medal.

The bronze medal went to Japan’s Takagaki Miho, who edged out American Brittany Bowe in a head-to-head battle, once again confirming her high international class.

Special attention in the stands was also drawn to Jake Paul, who attended the competition in Milan in person. Cameras repeatedly caught his emotions — from nervous anticipation to explosive joy after his partner crossed the finish line.

Final results, women’s 1000m:

1. Jutta Leerdam (Netherlands) — 1:12.31 (Olympic record)

2. Femke Kok (Netherlands) — 1:12.59 (+0.28)

3. Takagaki Miho (Japan) — 1:13.95 (+1.64)