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Rybakina won the greatest reward in women's tennis all time by beating world number one Aryna Sabalenka in two sets at the tournament.

The 26-year-old produced a stunning display to beat four-time Grand Slam winner her opponent in two sets in Saudi Arabia.

Because each competitor advanced through the competition without a loss, the reward on offer was a historic almost £4 million – the highest prize awarded in WTA history.

This amount surpasses the £3.74 million Sabalenka won for winning the New York major, which was the highest-paying Grand Slam in 2025.

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

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

"I want to say congratulations to Sabalenka for being number one for a second year in a row, it's an tremendous accomplishment."

Rybakina, who was the sixth-ranked player, hit 16 winning shots during a impressive opening set display.

Rybakina saved a couple of chances before winning all four points in the sixth game of the set to take the break and served out to secure the first set.

As the second set progressed, Sabalenka saved two break points at four-all to swing the momentum in her favor.

However, having worked so hard to disrupt her opponent's flow, Sabalenka failed to capitalize by wasting two chances in the following game to level the set at five-all.

Her inability to force a decider affected her tiebreak play, with the Kazakh winning every point to take home the championship.

The victory, Rybakina's sixth over Sabalenka, means she will move up one spot in the rankings to fifth in the world rankings.

A distraught Sabalenka was seen crying as she met with her coaching team shortly after the match.

"It was not the finest display from me in this match but Rybakina you were definitely the superior player," the Belarusian addressed the crowd.

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