GURUGRAM, INDIA — In a heartbreaking incident, 25-year-old Radhika Yadav, a talented state-level tennis player, was allegedly shot dead by her father, Deepak Yadav, at their family home in Gurugram’s Sector 57 on Thursday, July 10, 2025. The shocking event has left the Indian sports community and the nation in mourning, raising questions about domestic disputes and their devastating consequences.
Who Was Radhika Yadav?
Radhika Yadav was a rising star in Indian tennis, known for her dedication and skill on the court. Born on March 23, 2000, she began playing tennis at a young age and quickly made a name for herself in state-level tournaments. She achieved a career-high ranking of #113 in the International Tennis Federation (ITF) doubles category and peaked at #35 in the All India Tennis Association (AITA) Women’s Singles rankings on February 12, 2018. In AITA Women’s Doubles, she reached #53 on April 5, 2021. Radhika represented Haryana in numerous competitions and was celebrated for her contributions to Indian tennis, earning accolades for her performances in national and international events.
Beyond her athletic achievements, Radhika was active on social media, where she shared glimpses of her life and passion for tennis. However, reports suggest that a disagreement over her social media activity, specifically Instagram reels, may have led to a tragic altercation with her father.
The Incident
The incident occurred around noon on July 10, 2025, at the family’s residence in Sushant Lok-Phase 2, Sector 57, Gurugram. According to police reports, Deepak Yadav, aged 49, allegedly used a licensed .32 bore revolver to fire multiple shots, three of which struck Radhika. She was reportedly shot in the back while cooking and succumbed to her injuries at the scene. Neighbors, alerted by the sound of gunshots, rushed Radhika to a nearby hospital, where she was declared dead.
Gurugram Police arrested Deepak Yadav, and the weapon used in the crime has been recovered. Initial investigations point to a domestic dispute, with some sources citing the father’s disapproval of Radhika’s social media activity as a possible trigger. However, the exact motive remains under investigation, and authorities are working to uncover the full circumstances of this tragedy.
A Loss to Indian Tennis
Radhika’s death is a significant loss to the Indian sporting community. Her talent and potential had marked her as an emerging figure in tennis, with many believing she had a bright future ahead. Tributes have poured in from fellow athletes, coaches, and fans, who remember her as a dedicated player and a vibrant individual.
The Gurugram Police, led by Public Relations Officer Sandeep Kumar, have assured a thorough investigation. “We have arrested the accused, and a case is being registered,” Kumar stated. The police are interviewing family members and analyzing evidence to understand the events leading to the shooting.
A Call for Reflection
This tragic incident has sparked discussions about family dynamics, mental health, and the pressures of social media in modern life. While the investigation continues, Radhika’s story serves as a somber reminder of the need for open communication and support within families.
Radhika Yadav’s legacy as a talented tennis player will live on through the memories of those who watched her compete and the impact she made on the court. The global sports community joins India in mourning the loss of a promising young athlete.
