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Rybakina secured the largest prize in women's tennis history by beating top-ranked Sabalenka in two sets at the WTA Finals.

Rybakina delivered a stunning display to defeat four-time major champion Sabalenka 6-3 7-6 (7-0) in the host country.

Because both players advanced through the competition undefeated, the prize money on offer was a record-breaking £3.98m – the biggest payout offering in WTA history.

This amount tops the £3.74m the Belarusian earned for winning September's US Open, which was the highest-paying major tournament in the current year.

"It's been an incredible week," stated the Kazakh player.

"I honestly didn't expect this outcome so to reach the final was just incredible."

"Let me offer praise to Sabalenka for being number one for a second consecutive year in a row, it's an incredible accomplishment."

Rybakina, who was the world number six, delivered sixteen winners during a commanding first-set display.

The 2022 Wimbledon winner fended off two chances before taking every point in the sixth game to go a break up and served out to secure the first set.

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

But, after fighting back to disrupt Rybakina's rhythm, Sabalenka failed to capitalize by squandering two chances in the following game to tie the second set at 5-5.

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

The victory, Rybakina's sixth over her rival, means she will move up one spot in the WTA rankings to number five in the world.

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

"It was not the best performance from me in this match but Rybakina you were definitely the superior competitor," the Belarusian told the audience.

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