Elena Rybakina Upsets Aryna Sabalenka to Secure Record £4m Prize

Tennis Play

Rybakina secured her 45th hard court triumph of the year

Rybakina claimed the largest payday in WTA history by overcoming world number one Aryna Sabalenka in two sets at the tournament.

Rybakina produced a impressive display to beat four-time major winner Sabalenka in two sets in the host country.

Because each competitor came through the tournament undefeated, the reward on the table was a record-breaking £3.98m – the highest payout awarded in WTA history.

The reward surpasses the £3.74 million the Belarusian earned for claiming September's New York major, which was the most lucrative major tournament in 2025.

"It's been an incredible week," commented Rybakina.

"Truly couldn't have predicted any result so to reach the final was just remarkable."

"I want to say congratulations to Aryna for being number one for a second consecutive year running, it's an tremendous accomplishment."

Rybakina, who was the world number six, delivered 16 winners during a impressive opening set performance.

Rybakina fended off a couple of break points before taking every point in the sixth game to take the break and served out to secure the first set.

With the second set on serve, Sabalenka saved another two break points at 4-4 to swing the momentum in her favor.

However, after fighting back to upset her opponent's flow, Sabalenka failed to capitalize by wasting a pair of chances in the next game to tie the set at five-all.

Her inability to force a decider impacted her tie-break performance, with Rybakina winning every point to claim the championship.

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

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

"It was not the finest display from me today but Rybakina you were definitely the superior player," the Belarusian told the crowd.

"You really overpowered me out of the court. I'm happy to see you play your best tennis. Celebrate this beautiful trophy."

James Webb
James Webb

A passionate gamer and writer specializing in strategy guides and game analysis, with years of experience in competitive gaming.