After Winning the Award, the Person Wang Hong Most Wanted to Thank

2026 Fields Medalist Wang Hong said her first thanks went to her PhD advisor Larry Guth.

The article revisits Guth’s role in her Kakeya conjecture work, highlighting his patient guidance, probing questions, and training in mathematical thinking.

Guth’s approach of breaking hard problems into simple, concrete questions strongly shaped Wang’s research style and problem selection.

The report shows that Wang’s breakthrough was built not only on individual brilliance, but also on mentorship and academic continuity.