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Rybakina won the biggest prize in WTA history by defeating top-ranked Sabalenka in two sets at the WTA Finals.

Rybakina produced a stunning performance to overcome four-times major winner her opponent 6-3 7-6 (7-0) in the host country.

Since each competitor advanced through the event undefeated, the prize money on the table was a unprecedented almost £4 million – the largest prize awarded in women's tennis the sport's history.

The reward exceeds the £3.74 million Sabalenka received for winning the US Open, which was the most lucrative Grand Slam in 2025.

"It's been an fantastic tournament," said the Kazakh player.

"Truly couldn't have predicted this outcome so to reach the final was just unbelievable."

"I want to say praise to Aryna for being number one for a second consecutive year running, it's an outstanding achievement."

The champion, who was the world number six, delivered 16 winning shots during a impressive first-set performance.

Rybakina saved a couple of chances before taking every point in the sixth game of the set to take the break and held her serve to seal the opening set.

As the second set progressed, the world number one defended another two opportunities at four-all to swing the momentum in her favor.

However, after fighting back to disrupt Rybakina's rhythm, Sabalenka failed to capitalize by squandering a pair of chances in the following game to level the set at 5-5.

Sabalenka's failure to level the match impacted her tie-break play, with the Kazakh winning every point to claim the title.

The victory, her sixth triumph over Sabalenka, means Rybakina will rise one place in the rankings to fifth in the world.

A distraught the runner-up appeared to be in tears as she met with her team soon after the match.

"That was not the best performance from me in this match but Elena you were definitely the superior competitor," Sabalenka addressed the audience.

"You really smashed me on court. I'm pleased to see you play your best tennis. Celebrate this beautiful trophy."