Rybakina Stuns Sabalenka to Claim WTA Finals Crown and $5.235 Million

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Kazakhstani tennis sensation Elena Rybakina has won her biggest title since Wimbledon 2022, defeating world number one Aryna Sabalenka 6-3, 7-6 at the WTA Finals in Riyadh. The victory marked a historic moment for Rybakina, who became the first player from Kazakhstan and the first Asian player to lift the WTA Finals singles trophy. Rybakina's impressive performance earned her a record-breaking $5.235 million and propelled her to a year-end ranking of number five in the world. Her serving prowess and returning skills were on full display as she fired 13 aces and finished with a total of 48 in the tournament. The 11-match winning streak for Rybakina now stands, and she improved her head-to-head record against Sabalenka to 6-8. The two players have been locked in a gripping rivalry since 2019, with their 14th meeting being one for the books. In a hard-hitting duel, Rybakina's defense proved to be the key factor in the first set, as she broke Sabalenka's serve in game six to take the set 6-3. The second set was a closely contested affair, with Sabalenka fighting to stay in the match. However, Rybakina's serve remained untouchable, and she sealed the deal in a tiebreak to win the match 1 hour and 47 minutes. Despite the loss, Sabalenka set a new WTA Tour record for most prize money earned in a single season, surpassing Serena Williams' 2013 record. The Belarusian showed incredible sportsmanship, congratulating Rybakina on her victory and acknowledging her own team's achievements. Rybakina's win has sparked controversy, as she refused to pose for a photo alongside Sabalenka and WTA CEO Portia Archer, citing her ongoing issues with the tour. However, the Kazakhstani player remains focused on her game, and her historic victory will be remembered for years to come.