After defeat to Rybakina, Sabalenka praises her rival in the emotional WTA Finals finale

Aryna Sabalenka showed both heartbreak and humility after falling to Elena Rybakina in the final of the WTA Finals in Saudi Arabia. The Belarusian star was overcome with emotion following the loss, but swiftly turned her disappointment into respect as she congratulated her rival on a well-earned victory.

The final took place on Saturday at the King Saud University Indoor Arena, bringing to an end the season’s showcase event. Sabalenka, who had been among the favourites to win, found herself unable to match Rybakina’s precision and composure in key moments of the contest. The result handed the Kazakhstani player the championship title along with a prize of £3.9 million, capping a remarkable week of tennis.

Sabalenka had entered the tournament in outstanding form, having claimed her fourth Grand Slam title earlier in the year. She lifted the US Open trophy for the second consecutive time in September, confirming her place among the sport’s elite. Her success continued in the early rounds of the WTA Finals, where she won all three of her group stage matches with commanding performances.

In the semi-finals, Sabalenka defeated American player Amanda Anisimova, showing the powerful groundstrokes and mental resilience that have defined her rise to the top of women’s tennis. The victory set up a much-anticipated final against Rybakina, whose consistent play and strong serve have made her one of the most formidable opponents on the circuit.

The championship match, however, did not unfold in Sabalenka’s favour. Despite a promising start, unforced errors began to creep into her game. Rybakina capitalised with accurate returns and steady baseline play that left Sabalenka chasing momentum throughout. As the final point was played and the contest concluded, the emotion of the moment became clear. Sabalenka appeared visibly shaken and fought back tears as she faced the reality of defeat.

Her reaction after the match displayed both sportsmanship and maturity. Rather than dwell on the loss, she turned her attention to her opponent’s achievements. “Elena played incredible tennis all week and completely deserved this win,” Sabalenka said in her post-match remarks. Her praise marked a gracious response that drew applause from the crowd and respect from fellow players.

The 27-year-old has been one of the most consistent performers in women’s tennis over the past two seasons. Her victory at Flushing Meadows confirmed her ability to handle the pressure of major finals, while her run in Saudi Arabia demonstrated her continued hunger for success.

This season has seen Sabalenka reach multiple finals and cement her position near the top of the world rankings. Although the defeat was a setback, her willingness to credit her rival highlighted the strength of character that has made her a popular figure on the WTA Tour.

For Rybakina, the triumph concluded a run of exceptional form. The 2022 Wimbledon champion maintained her focus throughout the competition, dispatching several top opponents to claim the WTA Finals crown. Her performance reinforced her status as one of the most dangerous players in the sport.

As the curtain falls on the season, both players will look ahead to 2026 with renewed motivation. Sabalenka will aim to build on her Grand Slam success and regain the title she narrowly missed in Riyadh, while Rybakina will seek to continue her momentum into the new campaign.

Though the evening ended in tears for Sabalenka, her composure and sportsmanship offered a fitting reminder of what defines a champion. Her quick shift from heartbreak to heartfelt praise revealed her true colours on tennis’s biggest stage.