Rybakina stuns Sabalenka to win WTA Finals in straight sets

Overview

• Elena Rybakina registered a stunning 6-3, 7-6 (7-0) win over World No.1 Aryna Sabalenka in the WTA Finals.
• It was her 45th hard-court win of the year.
• Reflecting on the defeat, Sabalenka admitted she couldn’t bring her best performance.

Elena Rybakina registered a stunning 6-3, 7-6 (7-0) win over World No.1 Aryna Sabalenka in the WTA Finals in Saudi Arabia. It was her 45th hard-court win of the year, and the way she defeated Sabalenka in straight sets left everyone stunned.

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Speaking after the match, Rybakina said: "It's been an incredible week. I honestly didn't expect any result so to go so far was just incredible. I want to say congratulations to Aryna for being number one for a second year in a row, it's an incredible achievement."

The match carried record-breaking prize money of £3.98m — the largest payout in women’s tennis history. Rybakina claimed it with a commanding display that left Sabalenka disappointed. Moments after the loss, the World No.1 was seen in tears while sitting with her coaching team.

"It was not the best performance from me today" - Sabalenka

Reflecting on the defeat, Sabalenka admitted she couldn’t bring her best performance and praised Rybakina’s dominant play.

"It was not the best performance from me today, but Elena you were definitely the better player," the Belarusian said. "You literally smashed me out of the court. I'm happy to see you play your best tennis. Enjoy this beautiful trophy."

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She further added that Rybakina showed a bit more bravery than her when it came to making decisions. “I feel like she just decided that she’s just going to step in and go for her shots without thinking and without doubting any decisions. And I think she was a bit more brave today than me,” Sabalenka said.