Rybakina Upsets Sabalenka to Claim Record £4 Million Payout

Elena Rybakina secured the biggest prize in WTA all time by overcoming top-ranked Sabalenka in straight sets at the WTA Finals.

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

Because both players advanced through the event undefeated, the purse on the table was a unprecedented £3.98 million – the largest prize awarded in women's tennis history.

The reward surpasses the £3.74 million Sabalenka earned for claiming September's New York major, which was the most lucrative Grand Slam in 2025.

"It's been an amazing week," stated Rybakina.

"I honestly didn't expect any result so to go so far was just incredible."

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

Rybakina, who was the world number six, delivered 16 winners during a dominant first-set performance.

Rybakina fended off two break points before taking all four points in the sixth game to take the break and held her serve to secure 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 upset Rybakina's rhythm, the top seed failed to capitalize by squandering two chances in the following game to level the set at 5-5.

Sabalenka's failure to force a decider impacted her tiebreak play, with Rybakina taking all seven points to claim the title.

This win, her sixth triumph over Sabalenka, means she will rise one spot in the rankings to number five in the world rankings.

An emotional Sabalenka appeared to be in tears as she met with her team soon after the final.

"That was not the finest performance from me today but Rybakina you were certainly the better player," Sabalenka told the audience.

"You literally smashed me out of the court. I'm pleased to see you play your best tennis. Celebrate this beautiful title."