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Elena Rybakina secured the biggest reward in women's tennis history by beating top-ranked Sabalenka in two sets at the WTA Finals.

The 26-year-old produced a impressive display to beat four-time major champion her opponent 6-3 7-6 (7-0) in the host country.

Since both players came through the tournament without a loss, the prize money on offer was a historic £3.98m – the biggest payout offering in WTA the sport's history.

This amount surpasses the £3.74m Sabalenka received for claiming the New York major, which was the most lucrative major tournament in 2025.

"It's been an incredible tournament," commented the Kazakh player.

"Truly didn't expect any result so to go so far was just unbelievable."

"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, hit 16 winners during a commanding first-set display.

Rybakina saved two chances before winning all four points in the sixth game to go a break up and served out to secure the opening set.

With the second set on serve, the world number one saved another two opportunities at four-all to shift the balance in her favour.

However, after fighting back to disrupt Rybakina's rhythm, Sabalenka failed to capitalize by squandering two set points in the following game to level the set at five-all.

Her inability to force a decider affected her tie-break performance, with the Kazakh taking every point to take home the title.

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

A distraught the runner-up was seen crying as she met with her team soon after the final.

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

"You really smashed me on court. I'm pleased to see you at your peak. Celebrate this beautiful title."