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Elena Rybakina secured the biggest prize in WTA history by defeating world number one Sabalenka in straight sets at the tournament.

Rybakina produced a stunning display to defeat four-times Grand Slam winner her opponent in two sets in Saudi Arabia.

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

The prize money surpasses the £3.74 million the Belarusian earned for winning the US Open, which was the highest-paying Grand Slam in the current year.

"It's been an amazing tournament," commented Rybakina.

"I honestly couldn't have predicted this outcome so to reach the final was just remarkable."

"Let me offer praise to Aryna for being number one for a second consecutive year running, it's an incredible achievement."

Rybakina, who was the sixth-ranked player, hit 16 winners during a dominant first-set display.

The 2022 Wimbledon winner fended off a couple of break points before taking all four points in the sixth game of the set to take the break and served out to seal the opening set.

As the second set progressed, the world number one saved two opportunities at 4-4 to shift the balance in her favor.

But, having worked so hard to upset Rybakina's rhythm, Sabalenka failed to capitalize by squandering two set points in the next game to level the second set at five-all.

Her inability to level the match impacted her tie-break performance, with the Kazakh taking every point to win the title.

This win, Rybakina's sixth over Sabalenka, means she will rise one place in the WTA rankings to number five in the world.

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

"It was not the finest display from me today but Elena you were certainly the superior competitor," the Belarusian told the audience.

"You really smashed me on court. I'm happy to see you play your best tennis. Enjoy this beautiful title."