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Rybakina claimed the largest reward in WTA all time by defeating top-ranked Sabalenka in straight sets at the WTA Finals.

Rybakina produced a stunning performance to beat four-times Grand Slam winner her opponent in two sets in Saudi Arabia.

Because each competitor advanced through the tournament without a loss, the prize money on the table was a unprecedented almost £4 million – the largest prize offering in WTA the sport's history.

The prize money tops the £3.74m the Belarusian received for winning September's New York major, which was the most lucrative Grand Slam in 2025.

"This has been an fantastic tournament," commented Rybakina.

"I honestly couldn't have predicted any result so to go so far was just incredible."

"I want to say praise to Sabalenka for holding the top spot for a second year in a row, it's an incredible achievement."

Rybakina, who was the world number six, delivered sixteen winning shots during a dominant first-set performance.

The 2022 Wimbledon winner saved a couple of break points before winning every point in the sixth game to go a break up and served out to win the first set.

With the second set on serve, Sabalenka defended another two opportunities at 4-4 to swing the momentum in her favour.

However, having worked so hard to upset Rybakina's rhythm, the top seed let her opponent off the hook by squandering two chances in the following game to tie the second set at five-all.

Her inability to level the match affected her tiebreak play, with Rybakina winning every point to claim the title.

The victory, Rybakina's sixth over her rival, means she will move up one place in the rankings to number five in the world.

A distraught Sabalenka was seen crying as she sat with her team soon after the match.

"That was not the best display from me in this match but Elena you were definitely the better competitor," the Belarusian told the crowd.

"You really smashed me out of the court. I'm happy to see you at your peak. Celebrate this stunning title."