NEW DELHI (India CSR): In a heartbreaking incident that has shocked India’s sports community, 25-year-old tennis prodigy Radhika Yadav, known for her grit on the courts and passion for coaching young players, was fatally shot by her father at their Gurugram home. The tragedy unfolded in Sector 57’s upscale Sushant Lok on Thursday, exposing the deep-rooted conflict between a daughter’s dream and a father’s disapproval.
A Rising Tennis Star Lost Too Soon
Radhika Yadav wasn’t just an athlete; she was a mentor to many. Having carved a niche in the International Tennis Federation (ITF) women’s doubles, she ranked 113 globally and held the fifth spot in Haryana’s women’s doubles. Off the court, she passionately ran a tennis academy, inspiring a new generation of players.
Her dream, however, met a tragic end when her father, Deepak Yadav, 49, allegedly fired three bullets from his licensed .32 bore revolver while Radhika was in the kitchen. Neighbors recall hearing gunshots pierce the calm evening.
Clash Over Independence and Ambition
Preliminary police reports suggest a long-standing conflict between Radhika and her father regarding her independence and professional pursuits. Deepak Yadav reportedly opposed her running the academy, believing she should follow a more conventional path. On Thursday, a heated argument turned deadly.
Confirming the events, Gurugram Police PRO Sandeep Kumar said, “The accused, Deepak Yadav, has been arrested and booked for murder. He has confessed to the crime, citing ongoing disputes over Radhika’s academy.”
A Family Torn Apart
The complaint was filed by Kuldeep Yadav, Deepak’s brother, who lived downstairs and rushed to the scene upon hearing the shots. Radhika’s mother, who was present during the incident, remains in deep shock and under psychological care.
As investigations continue, the murder has sparked conversations across India about generational conflicts, control over women’s choices, and mental health issues in families.
Public Outrage and Mourning in Sports Circles
Tributes poured in from sports personalities, with several ITF players sharing their grief on social media. The All India Tennis Association (AITA) called it “a colossal loss for Indian tennis.”
Social media hashtags #JusticeForRadhika and #StopDomesticViolence trended across platforms. Activists are urging stricter gun control and better mental health support for families under conflict.
The Bigger Picture: Another Life Lost to Patriarchy
This tragedy adds to a worrying trend of violence against women in India, especially when they defy patriarchal expectations. Despite her global achievements, Radhika could not escape societal shackles at home.
Key Facts About Radhika Yadav’s Tennis Career:
| Achievement | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | 23 March 2000 |
| ITF Women’s Doubles Best Rank | 113 (Nov 4, 2024) |
| Haryana State Ranking | 5th (Women’s Doubles) |
| Academy Founded | 2022, Gurugram |
| Major Career Highlight | Multiple ITF Doubles Quarterfinals |
| Known For | Aggressive baseline play, mentoring youth |
| Active Years | 2018 – 2025 |
| Coaching Style | Modern, youth-centric training |
| Community Impact | Coached over 100 aspiring players |
| Social Media Following | 58K (Instagram, as of July 2025) |
