Many students across China have been inspired by the 35-year-old mathematician's historic achievement. Yet it is her reflections on struggling with confidence at Peking University that have resonated most, prompting debate over whether Chinese universities do enough to nurture confidence, creativity, and independent thinking.
Wang and fellow Chinese mathematician Deng Yu, 37, were among four recipients of the Fields Medal announced on July 23. This marked the first time a Chinese woman won the highest honor for mathematicians under the age of 40, and also the first time two Chinese mathematicians have won the prestigious award in the same year.
Of the 68 recipients in the history of the Fields Medal, she is only the third woman to be honored.
Wang is currently Silver Professor of Mathematics at New York University's Courant Institute and, since September 2025, a permanent professor at France's Institut des Hautes Études Scientifiques. She is the first NYU faculty member to win the Fields Medal, the university said.
From 'sanctuary' to struggle
