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Rybakina secured the biggest payday in WTA all time by overcoming world number one Sabalenka in straight sets at the WTA Finals.

Rybakina delivered a stunning performance to beat four-times major champion her opponent in two sets in the host country.

Since both players came through the tournament undefeated, the prize money on offer was a historic £3.98 million – the highest payout awarded in women's tennis history.

The prize money surpasses the £3.74m the Belarusian won for claiming the US Open, which was the most lucrative Grand Slam in the current year.

"This has been an incredible tournament," said the Kazakh player.

"I honestly didn't expect this outcome so to win the title was just unbelievable."

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

Rybakina, who was the world number six, delivered 16 winning shots during a commanding first-set display.

Rybakina saved two break points before winning every point in the sixth game to take the break and served out to secure the first set.

As the second set progressed, the world number one defended another two opportunities at 4-4 to swing the momentum in her favour.

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

Her inability to force a decider impacted her tie-break performance, with the Kazakh winning all seven points to claim the title.

This win, Rybakina's sixth over Sabalenka, means Rybakina will move up one spot in the WTA rankings to number five in the world.

A distraught Sabalenka was seen crying as she met with her team soon after the final.

"It was not the best performance from me in this match but Rybakina you were certainly the better player," Sabalenka told the audience.

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