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Elena Rybakina secured the largest prize in women's tennis history by overcoming world number one Sabalenka in straight sets at the WTA Finals.

The 26-year-old produced a stunning display to defeat four-times Grand Slam winner her opponent in two sets in the host country.

Since each competitor advanced through the competition without a loss, the reward on the table was a historic £3.98m – the largest payout offering in WTA the sport's history.

This amount tops the £3.74m the Belarusian received for claiming the New York major, which was the highest-paying Grand Slam in 2025.

"It's been an fantastic tournament," stated Rybakina.

"I honestly didn't expect any result so to reach the final was just unbelievable."

"Let me offer praise to Sabalenka for holding the top spot for a second consecutive year running, it's an outstanding accomplishment."

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

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

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

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

Sabalenka's failure to level the match 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 WTA rankings to number five in the world rankings.

An emotional Sabalenka appeared to be in tears as she sat with her coaching team shortly after the match.

"That was not the best display from me today but Rybakina you were certainly the better player," the Belarusian addressed the audience.

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