The process of glucose metabolism holds a crucial position in the emergence and progression of malignant tumors, and the reprogramming of glucose metabolism is one of the important hallmarks of cancer cells. Molecular imaging techniques are employed to create visual representations of how tumors absorb and metabolize glucose, thereby offering valuable assistance in the realms of tumor research, diagnosis and treatment. Traditionally, tracking of glucose metabolism within tumors has been accomplished through the use of radioisotopes to label glucose molecules. More recently, the advent of fluorescently tagged glucose has emerged as a promising alternation, enabling researchers to effectively monitor the consumption of glucose by tumor cells. Up to date, the creation of near-infrared fluorescently labeled glucose probes has opened up new avenues for the exploration of tumor glucose metabolism, providing innovative tools for deeper insights into this critical biological process.