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Rybakina secured the biggest reward in WTA history by defeating top-ranked Aryna Sabalenka in straight sets at the WTA Finals.

The 26-year-old delivered a stunning display to beat four-times Grand Slam champion her opponent in two sets in Saudi Arabia.

Since each competitor advanced through the competition undefeated, the prize money on offer was a record-breaking almost £4 million – the biggest prize offering in women's tennis the sport's history.

The reward tops the £3.74m the Belarusian won for claiming the New York major, which was the most lucrative Grand Slam in the current year.

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

"Truly couldn't have predicted any result so to go so far was just unbelievable."

"I want to say congratulations 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 16 winners during a impressive first-set performance.

Rybakina 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.

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

But, after fighting back to upset Rybakina's rhythm, Sabalenka failed to capitalize by wasting two chances in the next game to tie the set at 5-5.

Sabalenka's failure to force a decider affected her tie-break play, with the Kazakh taking all seven points to claim the championship.

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

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

"It was not the best display from me today but Elena you were certainly the better player," the Belarusian addressed the crowd.

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