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Elena Rybakina claimed the largest reward in women's tennis history by defeating world number one Sabalenka in straight sets at the tournament.

Rybakina produced a stunning display to beat four-time Grand Slam winner her opponent 6-3 7-6 (7-0) in the host country.

Because both players advanced through the tournament without a loss, the prize money on the table was a historic £3.98 million – the largest payout awarded in WTA the sport's history.

The prize money exceeds the £3.74 million Sabalenka received for claiming the US Open, which was the most lucrative Grand Slam in 2025.

"This has been an fantastic week," said Rybakina.

"I honestly didn't expect this outcome so to go so far was just incredible."

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

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

The 2022 Wimbledon winner saved two chances before taking every point in the sixth game of the set to go a break up and held her serve to seal the first set.

With the second set on serve, Sabalenka defended another two break points at four-all to swing the momentum in her favour.

However, having worked so hard to disrupt 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 affected her tiebreak play, with Rybakina winning all seven points to take home the title.

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

A distraught Sabalenka appeared to be in tears as she met with her team shortly after the match.

"It was not the best performance from me in this match but Rybakina you were definitely the better player," the Belarusian addressed the audience.

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