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Elena Rybakina won the greatest reward in WTA all time by defeating top-ranked Aryna Sabalenka in straight sets at the championship.

Rybakina produced a stunning performance to overcome four-time major champion Sabalenka 6-3 7-6 (7-0) in the host country.

Since each competitor advanced through the tournament without a loss, the prize money on the table was a unprecedented £3.98 million – the largest prize awarded in WTA history.

This amount exceeds the £3.74m Sabalenka received for winning September's New York major, which was the highest-paying major tournament in 2025.

"It's been an incredible tournament," said Rybakina.

"Truly didn't expect this outcome so to reach the final was just remarkable."

"Let me offer praise to Aryna for holding the top spot for a second consecutive year running, it's an tremendous accomplishment."

The champion, who was the world number six, delivered sixteen winning shots during a dominant opening set display.

Rybakina saved two chances before taking every point in the sixth game to go a break up and served out to win the opening set.

With the second set on serve, the world number one defended two break points at four-all to swing the momentum in her favor.

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

Sabalenka's failure to force a decider impacted her tie-break play, with Rybakina winning every point to take home the championship.

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

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

"It was not the finest display from me in this match but Elena you were certainly the superior player," the Belarusian told the crowd.

"You literally smashed me out of the court. I'm happy to see you at your peak. Celebrate this stunning trophy."