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Elena Rybakina claimed the largest prize in WTA all time by beating world number one Aryna Sabalenka in two sets at the tournament.

The 26-year-old delivered a impressive display to beat four-time Grand Slam winner Sabalenka in two sets in Saudi Arabia.

Because each competitor came through the event undefeated, the reward on the table was a historic £3.98m – the largest prize offering in women's tennis the sport's history.

The reward exceeds the £3.74 million Sabalenka won for claiming the New York major, which was the most lucrative Grand Slam in the current year.

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

"Truly couldn't have predicted this outcome so to win the title was just remarkable."

"Let me offer congratulations to Sabalenka for holding the top spot for a second consecutive year running, it's an outstanding accomplishment."

Rybakina, who was the sixth-ranked player, delivered 16 winning shots during a impressive opening set display.

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

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

But, having worked so hard to disrupt her opponent's flow, the top seed let her opponent off the hook by wasting two chances in the next game to level the second set at 5-5.

Her inability to force a decider affected her tiebreak play, with Rybakina winning all seven points to win the title.

This win, her sixth triumph over Sabalenka, means she will rise one place in the rankings to number five in the world.

An emotional Sabalenka was seen crying as she met with her team shortly after the match.

"It was not the finest display from me in this match but Rybakina you were definitely the better player," the Belarusian addressed the crowd.

"You literally overpowered me on court. I'm happy to see you at your peak. Celebrate this beautiful trophy."