🔗 Share this article

Elena Rybakina claimed the largest reward in WTA history by defeating top-ranked Aryna Sabalenka in straight sets at the tournament.

Rybakina delivered a brilliant display to overcome four-time Grand Slam champion Sabalenka in two sets in Saudi Arabia.

Because each competitor came through the competition undefeated, the reward on the table was a unprecedented almost £4 million – the highest prize offering in WTA the sport's history.

The prize money tops the £3.74 million the Belarusian earned for winning September's New York major, which was the highest-paying major tournament in the current year.

"It's been an fantastic tournament," said the Kazakh player.

"Truly couldn't have predicted this outcome so to win the title was just incredible."

"I want to say congratulations to Aryna for holding the top spot for a second year in a row, it's an outstanding accomplishment."

The champion, who was the world number six, delivered 16 winners during a dominant opening set display.

Rybakina fended off two break points before winning every point in the sixth game to go a break up and served out to win the opening set.

As the second set progressed, Sabalenka defended another two opportunities at four-all to shift the balance in her favour.

But, having worked so hard to upset Rybakina's rhythm, Sabalenka failed to capitalize by squandering a pair of set points in the following game to tie the set at 5-5.

Her inability to force a decider impacted her tiebreak performance, with Rybakina taking all seven points to win the title.

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

An emotional the runner-up was seen crying as she met with her coaching team soon 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 audience.

"You really smashed me on court. I'm pleased to see you at your peak. Celebrate this beautiful trophy."