#USA #Philadelphia #Peking University #Fields Medal #Wang Hong

Historic Wins for Peking University at the ICM 2026

On July 23, 2026, the International Congress of Mathematicians (ICM) was inaugurated in Philadelphia, USA, marking a significant milestone in the world of mathematics. Peking University (PKU) celebrated the remarkable achievements of its alumni, Wang Hong and Deng Yu, who were both honored with the prestigious Fields Medal, often regarded as the 'Nobel Prize of Mathematics.' This recognition is not only an honor for them individually but also a historic moment for PKU, as it marks the first time that two alumni from the same graduating class of 2007 have received this award in the same year.

The Fields Medals, awarded by the International Mathematical Union (IMU) every four years, honor mathematicians under the age of 40, recognizing their substantial contributions to the field and their potential for future accomplishments. Wang and Deng were among only four recipients this year, emphasizing the rarity and value of this recognition.

Wang Hong's achievements are particularly noteworthy as she has become the third woman ever to receive the Fields Medal and the first Chinese woman to earn this esteemed accolade. Known for her groundbreaking research conducted in collaboration with Joshua Zahl, Wang contributed to the resolution of the longstanding Kakeya problem in three-dimensional space—a challenge that has perplexed mathematicians for decades. Her work lies at the intersection of mathematical analysis and geometry and is intricately linked to various mathematical domains. Currently, she is a full professor at the Institut des Hautes Études Scientifiques (IHES).

Deng Yu, also a prominent figure in the field, initiated his mathematics studies at Peking University in 2007 before continuing his education at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) for his undergraduate degree. He further advanced his knowledge with a doctorate from Princeton University and is now a professor at the University of Chicago. Together with collaborators Ma Xiao and Zaher Hani, Deng made significant advancements in addressing the sixth problem proposed by David Hilbert over a century ago, meticulously connecting microscopic particle dynamics with macroscopic kinetic and hydrodynamic equations.

Though Wang and Deng's academic journeys diverged, their paths began together at PKU, showcasing the university's growing international prestige in the field of mathematics. Their successes at such a significant event, especially with PKU setting a new record for the number of scholars invited to speak at this congress—14 representatives, including 10 alumni and 4 faculty members—underscore the institution's dedication to academic excellence.

In conclusion, the achievements of Wang Hong and Deng Yu serve as a testament to the high-caliber education and training provided at Peking University. Their recognition at the ICM 2026 not only highlights their personal accomplishments but also elevates the university's reputation on the global stage, inspiring future generations of mathematicians.