Kindly visit the Pairings & Results page for the full overview on the matches. The first round will start at 15 o'clock local time.

The calm before the storm

However, in such a high class competition there are a lot more essential ingredients in the recipe of success. The shape of the moment is quite high on the list, while taking your chances when they are “kindly” handed out by the opponent shouldn't be underestimated either. Would sharp and well worked-out openings prevail over the off-the-beaten paths? Or would middlegame culture and endgame technique tell the final word?
Until getting all these answers, spectators all over the World, commentators and the media have all the reasons for optimism. All the ladies are big fighters, a low rate of draws is to be expected and the public will most likely find it impossible leaving the playing hall or switching off the live broadcast before the last score-sheet has been signed.

A present for the players, which we will all see tomorrow on the live broadcast!

Let the games begin!

The ever smiling Harika is looking forward to make her first move...

...not before getting advice in cultural matters.
If you allow your Press Officer a personal final note too:
I am simply bewildered by all the players' stamina and strength. How do they manage to keep their energy bar levels on decent frequencies when their chess calendar is screaming in overcrowd?! More than half of the participants are coming straight from the very strong Open of Gibraltar, having to continue one tough game after another here, in Tehran. Without their massive talent, hard work and dedication this would simply be nearly impossible...