Rybakina Upsets Sabalenka to Win Record £4m Prize

Elena Rybakina claimed the greatest reward in WTA history by beating top-ranked Sabalenka in straight sets at the championship.

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

Since each competitor came through the tournament without a loss, the reward on offer was a unprecedented almost £4 million – the biggest payout offering in women's tennis the sport's history.

The prize money exceeds the £3.74 million the Belarusian won for claiming September's New York major, which was the highest-paying Grand Slam in the current year.

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

"Truly didn't expect this outcome so to reach the final was just unbelievable."

"Let me offer congratulations to Aryna for holding the top spot for a second consecutive year running, it's an incredible achievement."

The champion, who was the world number six, delivered 16 winners during a impressive first-set display.

Rybakina fended off two break points before winning all four points in the sixth game of the set to go a break up and served out to secure the first set.

With the second set on serve, the world number one saved two break points at four-all to swing the momentum in her favor.

But, after fighting back to upset her opponent's flow, Sabalenka let her opponent off the hook by squandering two set points in the next game to level the second set at five-all.

Sabalenka's failure to force a decider impacted her tie-break play, with the Kazakh winning all seven points to claim the championship.

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

An emotional the runner-up was seen crying as she met with her coaching team shortly after the final.

"It was not the best display from me today but Rybakina you were certainly the better competitor," the Belarusian addressed the crowd.

"You literally overpowered me on court. I'm pleased to see you at your peak. Enjoy this beautiful title."