The American announced her intention to boycott the event, which was awarded to Iran by the International Chess Federation (FIDE), last month.

One of the concerns raised by Paikidze was that players would be forced to comply with the Islamic Republic’s compulsory headscarf law.

The Championships are scheduled to take place in Iran’s capital Tehran in February, but despite the majority of the top women’s players looking set to compete, Paikidze has reiterated her viewpoint.

"I cannot thank all of you enough for all the support I have received over the last few days regarding my stance on hosting the Women’s World Championships in Iran," Paikidze wrote on Twitter.

"I have received many kind and heartfelt messages from across the globe and they have been incredibly meaningful.

"Unfortunately, other qualified participants of the Championship have not stood behind this point of view, yet.

"At this point, it appears as though FIDE will continue with their initial decision.

"Regardless of the outcome, I believe that the vitality of this story was not wasted, as it goes far beyond the reaches of the chess world.

"I have fought for what I believe in and I hope that all of this publicity has helped to raise awareness and spread the conversation about the women of Iran fighting against discrimination every single day."

Mitra Hejazipour, the 2015 Asian women's champion, called on fellow chess players to reject calls for a boycott.

The Iranian told The Guardian that staying away would undermine efforts to promote female sport in the country.

"This is going to be the biggest sporting event women in Iran have ever seen, we haven’t been able to host any World Championship in other sporting fields for women in the past,” Hejazipour said.

"It’s not right to call for a boycott.

"These games are important for women in Iran, it’s an opportunity for us to show our strength."