Speed skater Jutta Leerdam has chosen to limit her media engagements as she prepares for the 1000-meter event at the Olympic Games, emphasizing her focus on the competition over public discussions.
NOS, Netherlands
Leerdam, who frequently shares updates on her personal social media accounts, refrained from speaking extensively with the press during the preparation period in Milan. This led the Dutch Sports Press (NSP) to file an official complaint with Dutch Olympic team leaders. Although she later agreed to engage with Dutch media to avoid making the situation a larger issue, she left the venue abruptly after a brief interview with NOS, declining to speak further with reporters.
The skater explained that her focus remains on improving her performance and that she does not feel the need to share additional information beyond what she already posts online. Leerdam stated that during World Championships she often avoids media interactions as she concentrates on her training and preparation.
An area of sensitivity for Leerdam involves her ankle, which had previously caused significant pain and threatened her enjoyment of the sport. Recently, a physiotherapist was seen using a hammer to treat her ankle, a technique Leerdam described as routine and beneficial for maintaining mobility and preventing stiffness. She declined to elaborate on the treatment, emphasizing that it helps her perform better on the ice and has been a key factor in her increased speed.
Addressing her competition, Leerdam said she remains focused on her own performance and does not pay much attention to other athletes’ conditions or strategies. Among her rivals, Femke Kok was also noted as a favorite for the 1000-meter event.
