Elena Rybakina Defeats World No. 1 Sabalenka to Win WTA Finals

Elena Rybakina secured her most significant title since her 2022 Wimbledon triumph by defeating world number one Aryna Sabalenka 6-3, 7-6(7/0) at the WTA Finals on Saturday.

The world number six delivered a commanding performance, showcasing her powerful serving and sharp returning to outclass Sabalenka in straight sets. With this victory, Rybakina made history as the first Kazakh and the first player representing an Asian country to lift the WTA Finals singles trophy.

Rybakina had already dominated the round-robin stage, finishing 3-0, and her impressive run earned her a record-breaking $5.235 million in prize money the largest in women’s tennis history for a single event.

The victory also ensures she will close the season ranked world number five, cementing her status among the sport’s elite.

Speaking after the match, Rybakina credited her consistent serving and mental focus for her success, while praising Sabalenka’s resilience.

Tennis analysts have described the win as a landmark achievement for Rybakina and a sign of the growing prominence of players from Asia and Kazakhstan in the global tennis scene.

The WTA Finals in Riyadh concluded with Rybakina’s historic triumph, adding another milestone to a remarkable 2025 season and setting the stage for what promises to be another exciting year on the women’s tour.