Tennis Talent Shot Dead by Her Own Father

Athlete Murdered in Cold Blood at Home

In a disturbing case from Gurugram, India, 25-year-old tennis coach Radhika Yadav was shot and killed by her father, Deepak Yadav, at their home on the morning of July 10. According to police, the murder was triggered by Deepak’s bruised ego and anger over villagers mocking him for relying on his daughter’s income.

Radhika, who had once represented India as a junior player and later became a respected coach, was gunned down while preparing food in the kitchen. Her father fired four bullets into her chest and back at close range, using a licensed revolver. The attack lasted less than three minutes.

Her uncle, alerted by the sound of gunfire, rushed her to the hospital, but doctors confirmed she was already dead. Her mother was at home during the shooting but was reportedly unaware of the events unfolding.

A Career Built on Talent and Determination

Born in 2000, Radhika had shown early promise on the tennis circuit, reaching an international doubles ranking of 113. An injury forced her off the competitive scene, but she continued contributing to the sport by coaching young athletes in Gurugram.

Private chats now under investigation revealed that she had long considered leaving India for good. She mentioned plans to move to Dubai or Australia, reportedly to escape a stifling home environment and pursue her coaching career freely. Her family members, however, reject the claim.

Father Planned the Murder, Felt No Remorse

Police say Deepak Yadav planned the killing days in advance. On July 10, after sending his son out of the house, he retrieved his revolver, entered the kitchen where Radhika was cooking, and opened fire without warning. He later sat calmly in the drawing room beside the weapon.

Though he initially demanded the death penalty for himself, Deepak has since shown no remorse. In custody, he refused to explain his actions beyond citing “taunts” from neighbours about his dependence on his daughter’s income. Investigators have described his behaviour as cold and calculated.

He is currently lodged in a high-security cell in Gurugram district jail, under constant surveillance. Authorities have categorised him as a hardened criminal.

Friends Point to Control and Abuse

A fellow tennis player and close friend, Himaanshika Singh Rajput, accused Radhika’s family—especially her father—of emotionally abusing and controlling her for years. She alleged that Radhika was often shamed for her clothing, social life, and independence.

Radhika’s family denies these claims, insisting she travelled freely and had their full support. Police are still verifying details. Authorities are examining her Instagram profile, which includes a Spanish bio that reads, “Todo pasa por algo”—“Everything happens for a reason.”

Case Moves to Court

Police have charged Deepak Yadav with murder and are holding him in custody. They have sent Radhika’s mobile phone for forensic analysis as they build their case using digital evidence, autopsy results, and witness statements.

What remains is a nation grappling with the shocking loss of a young woman who rose through sport—only to be killed at home by the very person who should have protected her.

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