🔗 Share this article

Elena Rybakina won the largest payday in women's tennis all time by defeating world number one Aryna Sabalenka in straight sets at the championship.

The 26-year-old delivered a brilliant performance to overcome four-time major winner her opponent 6-3 7-6 (7-0) in Saudi Arabia.

Because each competitor advanced through the event undefeated, the reward on offer was a unprecedented £3.98 million – the biggest payout offering in women's tennis history.

The prize money exceeds the £3.74m Sabalenka won for claiming the New York major, which was the most lucrative Grand Slam in 2025.

"It's been an amazing tournament," said Rybakina.

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

"I want to say congratulations to Sabalenka for holding the top spot for a second year running, it's an tremendous achievement."

Rybakina, who was the sixth-ranked player, delivered sixteen winners during a commanding first-set display.

The 2022 Wimbledon winner fended off two chances before winning all four points in the sixth game of the set to go a break up and held her serve to win the opening set.

As the second set progressed, Sabalenka saved another two opportunities at 4-4 to swing the momentum in her favour.

But, after fighting back to upset Rybakina's rhythm, the top seed let her opponent off the hook by wasting two chances in the next game to level the set at 5-5.

Sabalenka's failure to force a decider affected her tiebreak performance, with Rybakina winning all seven points to win the title.

The victory, her sixth triumph over Sabalenka, means Rybakina will rise one spot in the WTA rankings to number five in the world rankings.

An emotional Sabalenka was seen crying as she met with her team shortly after the match.

"That was not the best display from me in this match but Elena you were definitely the better player," Sabalenka addressed the crowd.

"You literally overpowered me out of the court. I'm pleased to see you at your peak. Enjoy this stunning title."