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Rybakina claimed the largest payday in WTA history by overcoming top-ranked Aryna Sabalenka in two sets at the championship.

The 26-year-old produced a brilliant display to defeat four-time Grand Slam champion Sabalenka 6-3 7-6 (7-0) in the host country.

Since each competitor came through the event undefeated, the prize money on the table was a unprecedented almost £4 million – the biggest prize offering in women's tennis history.

The prize money tops the £3.74 million the Belarusian earned for claiming the US Open, which was the highest-paying major tournament in the current year.

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

"I honestly didn't expect this outcome so to reach the final was just incredible."

"I want to say praise to Sabalenka for holding the top spot for a second consecutive year running, it's an outstanding achievement."

The champion, who was the sixth-ranked player, delivered sixteen winning shots during a impressive opening set display.

Rybakina saved a couple of break points before winning all four points in the sixth game to take the break and held her serve to seal the first set.

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

However, after fighting back to upset Rybakina's rhythm, Sabalenka failed to capitalize by wasting a pair of set points in the following game to tie the second set at 5-5.

Sabalenka's failure to force a decider impacted her tiebreak play, with Rybakina winning every point to claim the title.

This win, Rybakina's sixth over her rival, means she will rise one spot in the WTA rankings to fifth in the world.

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

"It was not the finest display from me today but Elena 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. Enjoy this beautiful trophy."