The problem with "promise" is that it is ageist and hard to measure. And to be honest, being "promising" can actually put more psychological pressure on the recipient.
I think in general societies should strive to have equal and realistic opportunities across the board rather than try to fix it with a prize for selected young men.
To be fair, it's not awarded on "promise". It is awarded based on contribution, the Fields medal is phenomenally prestigious in that respect. It is just restricted to recipients under age 40, among other things.
I think in general societies should strive to have equal and realistic opportunities across the board rather than try to fix it with a prize for selected young men.