In a stunning academic achievement, Hasan Kerem Palaz, a sixth-grade student from Turkey's Denizli province, secured fourth place in the world at the Grand Final of the 2026 World Mathematics Invitational (WMI) held in Tokyo.
Pride in the Heart of Tokyo Today, July 18, 2026, the city of Tokyo, Japan, hosted the Grand Final of the World Mathematics Invitational (WMI). In these intense competitions featuring math elites from around the globe, Hasan Kerem Palaz, a sixth-grade student at Havva Süleyman Yağlıca Middle School in Denizli, managed to surpass his tough competitors to rank fourth in the world [1]. This success is a source of pride not only for his family and school but for the entire scientific community of Turkey.
Path to Success: From Denizli to Global Podiums Hasan Kerem Palaz participated in this competition as the sole representative sent from Denizli province. By demonstrating his analytical skills and speed in solving complex mathematical problems, he managed to register his name among the world's best [3]. The WMI is one of the most prestigious student-level mathematics events held annually in one of the world's scientific capitals, aiming to promote logical thinking and creativity among teenagers.
Brilliant Background and Previous Awards This is not the first time Hasan Kerem Palaz has shone on an international level. He previously won a gold medal in the American Math Olympiad (AMO) in 2026 [1]. Additionally, winning a gold medal in the National Young Mathematicians Olympiad and a silver medal in the Merit Prize are among the other honors of this young genius [1]. The brilliant track record of students from this region of Denizli in mathematics competitions indicates high educational potential and the continuous support of teachers and families in nurturing bright talents [2].
Reactions to Global Success Ranking fourth in the world has received widespread coverage in local and national Turkish media. Denizli education officials issued congratulatory messages, praising the tireless efforts of Hasan Kerem and his school's teaching staff. This success demonstrates that with proper planning and support for elites, it is possible to compete with the world's major scientific powers in international arenas and raise the national flag [1].
Hasan Kerem Palaz, a sixth-grade student from Denizli, after ranking fourth in the 2026 World Mathematics Invitational in Tokyo.
linkSources
- Denizlili öğrenci Matematik Olimpiyatları'nda Dünya 4.'sü oldu — Denizli 20 Haber (2026-07-18)
- Amerikan Matematik Olimpiyatı'nda birinci olan Denizlili öğrenci yaşadığı gururu anlattı — Anadolu Ajansı (2024-12-19)
- World Mathematics Invitational (WMI) 2026 Grand Final Results — WMI Official (2026-07-18)



