Kamal Ghorui
NEW DELHI: World No. 5 Elena Rybakina’s thrilling win over world number one Aryna Sabalenka in the Australian Open final was not only about revenge and glory but also about a massive prize money reward. The Kazakh star clinched her second Grand Slam title after a hard-fought 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 victory at Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne. Along with the prestigious trophy, Rybakina also secured one of the biggest payouts in tennis.The 2026 Australian Open saw a major rise in prize money across all rounds. The men’s and women’s singles champions each receive $4.15 million (approximately Rs 37.77 crore). By lifting the title, Rybakina earned $4.15 million (Rs 37.77 crore), which marks one of the highest earnings of her career. Runner-up Aryna Sabalenka also walked away with a significant amount despite the loss. She received $2.15 million (approximately Rs 19.56 crore) for finishing second. Such prize money plays a huge role in helping players manage travel costs, coaching teams, fitness trainers, and other professional expenses throughout the year.Elena Rybakina’s path to her first Australian Open title:
- 1st rd: bt Kaja Juvan (SLO) 6-4, 6-3
- 2nd rd: bt Varvara Gracheva (FRA) 7-5, 6-2
- 3rd rd: bt Tereza Valentova (CZE) 6-2, 6-3
- 4th rd: bt Elise Mertens (BEL x21) 6-1, 6-3
- QF: bt Iga Swiatek (POL x2) 7-5, 6-1
- SF: bt Jessica Pegula (USA x6) 6-3, 7-6 (9/7)
- F: bt Aryna Sabalenka (BLR x1) 6-4, 4-6, 6-4
This victory was especially meaningful for Rybakina because it helped her avenge her defeat to Sabalenka in the 2023 Australian Open final. This time, she remained calm under pressure and delivered powerful serves and consistent groundstrokes to secure the win. She sealed the match with an ace as she showed confidence and mental strength when it mattered most.
