Tennis Player Radhika Yadav Shot Dead

25-Year-Old Tennis Player Radhika Yadav Shot Dead by Father in Gurugram: Tragedy Sparks National Debate

In a heart-wrenching incident that has sparked outrage and soul-searching across the country, 25-year-old tennis player Radhika Yadav was tragically shot and killed at her family home in Gurugram on July 10, 2025. Police allege that her father, Deepak Yadav, opened fire with his licensed revolver while she was cooking—an act that has stirred discussions on familial violence, patriarchy, and mental health.

Who Was Radhika Yadav?

• Former state-level and national-level tennis player

• Held the 113th ITF women’s doubles ranking and ranked 5th in Haryana women’s doubles.

• Transitioned to coaching after a shoulder injury; began offering training sessions by booking city courts

• Ran her own tennis coaching venture, denying early academy-owner claims; chose a private Instagram presence, highlighting a grounded character.

The Shooting Incident

• Occurred around 10:30 AM on July 10 in the kitchen of the Yadav family home in Sector 57.

• Five shots were fired; three struck Radhika in the back, fatally wounding her.

• Her father later admitted to firing the shots and was promptly arrested under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and Arms Act.

Investigative Findings & Father’s Confession

Police investigations and Deepak’s confession reveal a distressing motive rooted not in social media or “love jihad,” but in societal pressure over perceived financial dependency:

• He felt humiliated by villagers who mocked him for “living off his daughter’s earnings” from her coaching. 

• The dispute escalated from his demand to shut the coaching venture—despite Radhika’s refusal.

• Police believe a combination of stress, depression, and wounded pride may have pushed him over the edge

Statements & Insights

Police Statements

• Dismiss social media speculation; confirm the core issue was a longstanding family dispute over income and independence.

• Acknowledge the father’s licensed revolver usage and deep-rooted psychological pressure.

Family Account

• Radhika’s uncle, Kuldeep Yadav, rushed her to the hospital after hearing the gunshots; police report details the scene in the kitchen.

• The mother, Manju Yadav, was reportedly in another room and did not witness the shooting.

Social Reaction

• Former classmates and local players are in shock, remembering Radhika as a dedicated athlete and mentor.

• Outrage is mounting on social media and news platforms, calling attention to gender dynamics and the risks driven by patriarchal norms.

Broader Impact & Takeaways

1. Domestic Violence Warning Signs

   • Highlights the need for early detection of familial stress, depression, and control issues.

2. Reckoning with Patriarchy

   • Examines how wounded male pride and community bullying can lead to fatal outcomes.

3. Mental Health & Social Support

   • Emphasizes the importance of mental health resources for families confronting rapid changes in gender roles and autonomy.

4. Legal & Safety Gaps

   • Sparks debate on firearm regulation and how personal firearms can escalate domestic violence.

Indeed, What Comes Next?

• Deepak Yadav remains in police custody and faces charges for murder and arms violation

• Police investigation is ongoing; further statements from Radhika’s mother and community members are being collected.

• Autopsy and psychological reports will assist in building the case