Chit-chat

The welcome reception and the opening ceremony of the “中国移动” (“China Mobile”) Women’s World Chess Championship were held on Saturday, January 4, 2020 at the 上海静安洲际酒店 (InterContinental Shànghǎi Jìng’Ān Hotel) in 上海 (Shànghǎi), China. 17th Women’s World Ches Champion 居文君 (Jū Wénjūn) from China and her challenger Aleksandra Yuryevna Goryachkina from Russia kindly gave their brief welcome speeches. The Fédération Internationale des Échecs (FIDE)’s most prominent frontman, Grandmaster Nigel David Short, also attended the presentation. “My chess challenge started two years ago in the same city and in the same hotel. I wish to thank in advance all who funded the match, especially the sponsor 中国移动 (China Mobile). Being World Champion is even more demanding than being challenger, and I just couldn’t afford to dwell on my laurels. I prepared long and hard, and I hope for the best”, 居文君 (Jū Wénjūn) said. “I’ve learned something from all women who made chess history in Russia. Well, I don’t want to say anything about my preparation. I feel good here in 上海 (Shànghǎi), and hopefully that will help me play as well as I can. I’ll do my best”, Goryachkina said. Goryachkina drew White for the first game tomorrow. Photos: International Mind Sports Association.