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Rybakina claimed the largest reward in women's tennis history by beating top-ranked Aryna Sabalenka in two sets at the WTA Finals.

The 26-year-old produced a stunning performance to overcome four-time major champion Sabalenka 6-3 7-6 (7-0) in Saudi Arabia.

Since both players advanced through the competition undefeated, the purse on the table was a historic almost £4 million – the largest prize awarded in WTA the sport's history.

The reward exceeds the £3.74m the Belarusian earned for winning the New York major, which was the highest-paying major tournament in 2025.

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

"Truly couldn't have predicted any result so to reach the final was just remarkable."

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

Rybakina, who was the sixth-ranked player, hit 16 winners during a dominant opening set display.

The 2022 Wimbledon winner fended off a couple of break points before winning all four points in the sixth game to go a break up and served out to win the first set.

With the second set on serve, the world number one saved another two break points at four-all to swing the momentum in her favor.

But, after fighting back to disrupt Rybakina's rhythm, the top seed failed to capitalize by wasting two set points in the following game to level the set at 5-5.

Her inability to force a decider affected her tiebreak play, with the Kazakh winning every point to win the championship.

This win, Rybakina's sixth over her rival, means Rybakina will rise one place in the rankings to fifth in the world.

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

"It was not the finest display from me today but Rybakina you were certainly the better player," Sabalenka told the crowd.

"You literally smashed me on court. I'm pleased to see you play your best tennis. Celebrate this stunning title."