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Rybakina won the largest reward in WTA all time by overcoming top-ranked Sabalenka in straight sets at the tournament.

Rybakina produced a stunning performance to beat four-times Grand Slam champion her opponent 6-3 7-6 (7-0) in Saudi Arabia.

Since both players advanced through the competition without a loss, the reward on offer was a historic almost £4 million – the biggest prize awarded in WTA the sport's history.

The prize money tops the £3.74 million Sabalenka earned for claiming September's US Open, which was the most lucrative major tournament in the current year.

"This has been an fantastic tournament," commented the Kazakh player.

"I honestly couldn't have predicted this outcome so to go so far was just incredible."

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

The champion, who was the world number six, delivered 16 winning shots during a impressive first-set performance.

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

As the second set progressed, Sabalenka saved another two opportunities at 4-4 to swing the momentum in her favour.

But, having worked so hard to disrupt Rybakina's rhythm, Sabalenka failed to capitalize by wasting a pair of chances in the next game to level the second set at 5-5.

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

This win, her sixth triumph over Sabalenka, means she will move up one place in the WTA rankings to fifth in the world rankings.

An emotional the runner-up appeared to be in tears as she met with her team soon after the match.

"That was not the best display from me in this match but Rybakina you were definitely the better player," the Belarusian addressed the audience.

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