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Rybakina claimed the largest prize in women's tennis history by overcoming top-ranked Aryna Sabalenka in straight sets at the tournament.

The 26-year-old produced a stunning performance to beat four-times Grand Slam winner her opponent 6-3 7-6 (7-0) in Saudi Arabia.

Because each competitor came through the event without a loss, the prize money on the table was a historic almost £4 million – the biggest payout offering in WTA the sport's history.

The reward surpasses the £3.74 million the Belarusian earned for claiming the US Open, which was the most lucrative major tournament in 2025.

"This has been an incredible week," commented the Kazakh player.

"I honestly didn't expect this outcome so to reach the final was just remarkable."

"Let me offer congratulations to Sabalenka for holding the top spot for a second year in a row, it's an tremendous achievement."

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

Rybakina saved two break points before taking every point in the sixth game of the set to take the break and served out to win the opening set.

As the second set progressed, Sabalenka defended another two break points at 4-4 to shift the balance in her favor.

But, after fighting back to disrupt her opponent's flow, Sabalenka failed to capitalize by squandering two set points in the next game to tie the second set at 5-5.

Her inability to level the match impacted her tie-break play, with Rybakina winning all seven points to win the title.

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

A distraught Sabalenka was seen crying as she sat with her coaching team soon after the final.

"That was not the finest display from me in this match but Rybakina you were certainly the better player," Sabalenka addressed the audience.

"You really smashed me out of the court. I'm pleased to see you play your best tennis. Celebrate this stunning trophy."