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Rybakina secured the biggest prize in women's tennis all time by defeating top-ranked Sabalenka in straight sets at the WTA Finals.

The 26-year-old delivered a stunning performance to beat four-time Grand Slam champion Sabalenka 6-3 7-6 (7-0) in the host country.

Because both players came through the event without a loss, the reward on the table was a unprecedented almost £4 million – the highest prize awarded in women's tennis history.

The prize money surpasses the £3.74m Sabalenka won for winning September's New York major, which was the highest-paying major tournament in 2025.

"This has been an incredible week," commented Rybakina.

"I honestly couldn't have predicted this outcome so to go so far was just remarkable."

"I want to say congratulations to Sabalenka for being number one for a second year in a row, it's an tremendous accomplishment."

The champion, who was the world number six, hit 16 winners during a impressive opening set display.

Rybakina saved a couple of chances before winning every point in the sixth game to go a break up and served out to secure the first set.

As the second set progressed, the world number one saved two break points at 4-4 to swing the momentum in her favour.

However, after fighting back to upset Rybakina's rhythm, the top seed failed to capitalize by wasting two chances in the next game to tie the second set at 5-5.

Sabalenka's failure to level the match affected her tiebreak performance, with Rybakina taking all seven points to take home the title.

This win, her sixth triumph over Sabalenka, means she will rise one spot in the WTA rankings to number five in the world rankings.

An emotional the runner-up appeared to be in tears as she sat with her team shortly after the final.

"That was not the finest performance from me in this match but Elena you were certainly the superior player," the Belarusian told the crowd.

"You really smashed me out of the court. I'm pleased to see you play your best tennis. Celebrate this stunning trophy."