Elena Rybakina clinched the 2025 WTA Finals title in Riyadh after a hard-fought victory against World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka. Rybakina defeated Sabalenka 3-6, 7-6(0), 7-6(7) in an intense three-set final to close her season on a historic high. The Kazakh star secured a prize of USD 5.23 million, while Sabalenka, finishing as runner-up, earned USD 2.7 million.
The win marks Rybakina’s 11th straight victory, capping off a remarkable season in which she defeated five top-10 players in Riyadh alone. Entering the Finals as the last qualifier, Rybakina ends her season as the World No. 6, while Sabalenka maintains her position as World No. 1.
Following the defeat, Sabalenka reflected on her performance, expressing both pride and disappointment. “It’s been a good season overall, but I know I need to work on myself a little more. Hopefully next season I’ll improve,” she said. The Belarusian star also admitted that despite consistent performances, she has struggled to close out major finals. “Sometimes your opponent just plays better. The bad thing this season is that I lost most of the biggest finals I made. I’ll take time off in the Maldives, relax with a drink, and think about how to handle things better next year,” she added.
Rybakina, who became the 10th consecutive first-time WTA Finals champion, praised the atmosphere in Riyadh. “It’s been an amazing week. I truly enjoyed playing here for the second year in a row. Thank you to the Saudi Tennis Federation and everyone who made this event possible,” she said.
The victory also marked Rybakina’s 45th hardcourt win of the year — the best on tour. Meanwhile, Sabalenka ends the season with four titles, including her US Open triumph, and an impressive 63 match wins across the year.
