In a chilling incident that has shocked the sports community and the nation, 25-year-old state-level tennis player Radhika Yadav was shot dead by her father at their home in Gurugram’s Sushant Lok II on Thursday morning.
What happened?
The tragic murder took place around 10:30 a.m. while Radhika was cooking in the kitchen. Her father, Deepak Yadav, 51, allegedly fired three consecutive bullets into her back using his licensed revolver. She died instantly from critical injuries.
Police officials said the killing stemmed from long-standing tension over Radhika running her own tennis academy — a source of both pride and, tragically, humiliation in her father’s eyes.
Why did he do it?
According to investigators, Deepak Yadav had reportedly become increasingly agitated over social ridicule from people in their native village, Wazirabad, who taunted him for “living off” his daughter’s income. This reportedly wounded his “male pride.”
“He had repeatedly asked her to shut down the academy. She refused. That morning, after another argument, he shot her,” said ACP Yashwant Yadav.
The FIR also notes that Deepak claimed he had been battling depression for the last 15 days, and had recently objected to a social media video Radhika posted — allegedly a source of further anger.
Who was Radhika Yadav?
Radhika was a graduate of Scottish High International School and had pursued tennis passionately from a young age. She had:
- Ranked 113th in the International Tennis Federation (ITF) in doubles
- Frequently placed in the top 200 globally in ITF doubles rankings
- Recently launched her own tennis academy, mentoring young athletes
- Continued working through a shoulder injury, undergoing physiotherapy
- Inspired many as a strong, independent female sportsperson
Investigation and Aftermath
The accused has been arrested, and his revolver seized. Police are investigating the mental health angle and probing possible digital clues, including social media activity.
The horrific killing has sparked national outrage, highlighting ongoing struggles faced by Indian women in asserting independence — even when successful and law-abiding.
Social media has been flooded with demands for justice for Radhika, with many calling for mental health awareness, patriarchal reform, and stricter gun regulation.
This heartbreaking case serves as a grim reminder of the deadly consequences when misplaced ego and societal pressure collide with unchecked access to firearms and fragile masculinity.