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Elena Rybakina secured the biggest reward in women's tennis history by defeating world number one Sabalenka in straight sets at the championship.

Rybakina produced a brilliant performance to defeat four-time major winner her opponent in two sets in the host country.

Because each competitor came through the tournament undefeated, the prize money on offer was a historic almost £4 million – the highest prize awarded in women's tennis history.

The prize money surpasses the £3.74 million the Belarusian earned for claiming the New York major, which was the most lucrative major tournament in 2025.

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

"I honestly didn't expect any result so to go so far was just remarkable."

"Let me offer congratulations to Sabalenka for being number one for a second year running, it's an outstanding accomplishment."

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

Rybakina saved two chances before winning all four points in the sixth game to take the break and held her serve to secure the opening set.

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

However, having worked so hard to upset her opponent's flow, Sabalenka failed to capitalize by wasting two chances in the following game to level the second set at 5-5.

Her inability to level the match impacted her tie-break play, with the Kazakh winning every point to win the championship.

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

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

"It was not the finest performance from me in this match but Elena you were definitely the superior competitor," the Belarusian addressed the audience.

"You literally overpowered me out of the court. I'm happy to see you play your best tennis. Enjoy this beautiful title."