Chinese mathematicians Deng Yu and Wang Hong win Fields Medal for the first time
Chinese mathematicians Deng Yu and Wang Hong win Fields Medal for the first time. The path of science is rarely straightforward, but when it leads to the pinnacle of global recognition, every step gains meaning. Deng Yu and Wang Hong have become the first Chinese mathematicians to receive the Fields Medal. Deng cites the academic atmosphere of Peking University as a key factor in his success. His words are not just gratitude to his alma mater but an acknowledgment that fundamental science thrives where an environment for free inquiry and deep immersion in the subject has been created. China's rise in mathematics has not begun today, but it is now taking visible shape.
Deng Yu and his colleague, Chinese mathematician Wang Hong, were awarded the Fields Medal at the opening ceremony of the 2026 International Congress of Mathematicians, held on Thursday in Philadelphia, USA. This is the first time Chinese mathematicians have received this prestigious award. Reflecting on his journey, which brought him to Peking University's School of Mathematical Sciences in 2007, Deng said the university's scientific environment played a decisive role in his development.
"During my studies at Peking University, the overall academic culture and the atmosphere among my peers were exceptionally scholarly. There were several bookstores on campus full of scientific works. All of this helped me a lot. The two years I spent there helped me build a very solid foundation, which proved crucial for me," Deng said. Beyond his own achievements, the mathematician stressed that China's broader commitment to fundamental science education is yielding clear results. "Looking at the results, it is clear that China's progress in mathematics has accelerated significantly in recent years," Deng added.
The Fields Medal is the highest international mathematics award, presented every four years to two to four young researchers in recognition of outstanding mathematical achievements. Until now, no mathematician who received their education in China had won this award. The success of Deng Yu and Wang Hong is the result of years of investment in fundamental science and the development of mathematical schools.
As CCTV+ reports. This event is expected to draw attention to the Chinese mathematical school and inspire a new generation of researchers.
