BERLIN (AP) — The 2025 Nobel Prize winners received their illustrious news in surprising ways, from knocks at the door in the early morning to phone calls that rang through during hikes in secluded parks. These renowned awards, recognized globally as the ultimate honor in science, literature, and peace, have a profound impact.
This year marked a momentous occasion, with significant contributions in medicine and physics. Among the winners, Mary E. Brunkow received the news at home in Seattle, thanks to the remarkable determination of an AP photographer, Lindsey Wasson, who knocked on her door to deliver the good news, first beginning with her dog’s bark and her husband's confused expression.
You know, sir, I think your wife just won the Nobel Prize, Wasson told Ross Colquhoun as he tried to shake off sleep. Initially skeptical, Brunkow later realized her groundbreaking research on autoimmune diseases garnered global recognition.
Meanwhile, physicist John Martinis in California was awakened by photographers ahead of the sun. His surprised reaction came shortly after a frazzled wake-up from his wife, Jean, who wanted to ensure they weren't interrupted by another phone call.
On the other side of the globe, Fred Ramsdell was completely unaware of the news while on a family hiking trip, his phone mode intentionally set to airplane. Hours later, he learned of his accolade as his wife shared inundating notifications flooding their shared devices.
This year’s Nobel Prize honor reflects both the rigorous pursuit of scientific discovery and the casual reality of how recipients come to learn about their acknowledgments. As the details emerge, the stories blend humor with triumph, encapsulating the surprising twists of scientific achievements.
