RIYADH: Elena Rybakina produced a commanding performance to defeat world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka 6-3, 7-6 (7-0) and capture the WTA Finals singles title in Riyadh on Saturday, concluding a landmark week for women’s tennis in Saudi Arabia.
Rybakina started strongly, controlling the rallies with her trademark precision and powerful serve, before closing out the second set with a flawless tiebreak. The victory is one of the Kazakh player’s most impressive wins of the season and adds another major title to her growing resume.
At the post-match press conference, in response to Arab News questions, Rybakina praised Sabalenka’s intensity and consistency, describing her as “a great champion” and highlighting her ability to maintain such a high level over several seasons.
She said she had to stay composed and raise her own performance to match Sabalenka’s aggressive style of play.
Sabalenka, who has reached several major finals this year, admitted that while she tried to fight back throughout the match, things did not always go her way on the day.
Speaking to Arab News, Sabalenka said that despite the loss, she is proud of her efforts this season and plans to take time to reflect and learn from the experience.
She added that she intends to analyze her emotions and performances with her team to come back stronger next year.
In the doubles final, Veronika Kudermetova and Elise Mertens were dominant from start to finish, overpowering Tímea Babos and Luisa Stefani to lift the WTA Finals doubles trophy.
The pair’s chemistry and tactical sharpness proved decisive, sealing their victory in straight sets and underlining their reputation as one of the tour’s most consistent partnerships.
The WTA Finals in Riyadh brought the 2025 women’s tennis season to a close, setting another milestone in the Kingdom’s growing role as a global host for major sporting events.
