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Elena Rybakina secured the biggest prize in women's tennis history by overcoming top-ranked Sabalenka in straight sets at the tournament.

The 26-year-old produced a impressive performance to beat four-time Grand Slam champion her opponent 6-3 7-6 (7-0) in Saudi Arabia.

Since each competitor advanced through the competition undefeated, the reward on offer was a record-breaking almost £4 million – the highest prize awarded in women's tennis history.

The reward surpasses the £3.74m Sabalenka earned for winning the US Open, which was the highest-paying major tournament in the current year.

"This has been an amazing week," said Rybakina.

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

"Let me offer congratulations to Aryna for being number one for a second year in a row, it's an tremendous accomplishment."

Rybakina, who was the sixth-ranked player, hit 16 winning shots during a impressive first-set performance.

Rybakina saved two break points before taking every point in the sixth game to take the break and held her serve to win the opening set.

As the second set progressed, Sabalenka saved two break points at four-all to shift the balance in her favour.

However, after fighting back to upset her opponent's flow, the top seed let her opponent off the hook by squandering a pair of set points in the next game to level the set at five-all.

Sabalenka's failure to level the match affected her tiebreak play, with Rybakina taking all seven points to claim the championship.

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

An emotional Sabalenka appeared to be in tears as she met with her team shortly after the final.

"It was not the finest performance from me today but Rybakina you were definitely the better player," Sabalenka addressed the crowd.

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