Elena Rybakina celebrates 'incredible' WTA Finals win after beating Aryna Sabalenka

The 26-year-old delivered a commanding performance, overcoming the four-time Grand Slam champion 6-3, 7-6 (7-0) in Saudi Arabia.

With both players entering the tournament undefeated, the winner's prize reached a record-breaking £3.98 million - the largest payout ever in women's tennis.

Rybakina's haul surpasses the £3.74 million Sabalenka, 27, earned for her victory at September's US Open, which had been the highest-paying Grand Slam of 2025.

"It's been an incredible week," said Rybakina, who hails from Kazakhstan.

"I honestly didn't expect any result, so to go so far was just incredible.

"I want to say congratulations to Aryna for being number one for a second year in a row, it's an incredible achievement."

Rybakina, ranked world number six, dominated the opening set, striking 16 winners in a commanding display.

The 2022 Wimbledon champion fended off two break points before snatching a break of her own in the sixth game, then held serve to close out the first set.

In the second set, with the score on serve, Sabalenka saved two break points at 4-4 to briefly shift momentum in her favour, but she squandered two set points in the following game, allowing the second set to level at 5-5.

That missed opportunity appeared to affect her tie-break performance, as Rybakina claimed all seven points to secure the title.

The win, Rybakina's sixth over Sabalenka, will lift her one spot to fifth in the world rankings.

Meanwhile, a visibly upset Sabalenka appeared close to tears as she conferred with her coaching team after the match.

"It was not the best performance from me today, but Elena you were definitely the better player," the Belarusian told the crowd.

"You literally smashed me out of the court. I'm happy to see you play your best tennis. Enjoy this beautiful trophy."

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