In a chilling incident that has shocked the nation, 25-year-old tennis player Radhika Yadav was shot dead by her father, Deepak Yadav, at their home in Sushant Lok, Gurugram, on Thursday morning. Police have revealed that the murder stemmed from repeated taunts faced by the father over living off his daughter’s earnings, leading to a fatal breakdown in the family.
According to the first information report (FIR) and police investigation, the incident occurred around 10:30 AM, while Radhika was cooking in the kitchen. Her 49-year-old father reportedly fired five bullets, three of which struck her in the waist from behind, resulting in her immediate collapse.
Radhika Yadav, a former state-level tennis champion, had recently opened a tennis academy to coach young players after a shoulder injury hindered her professional playing career. Her father, however, had strongly objected to her continuing the venture. Police say Deepak Yadav was deeply disturbed by social taunts suggesting he was financially dependent on his daughter.
Also Read: Tennis Player Radhika Yadav Shot Dead by Father Over Instagram Reels Addiction
In a statement to the police during interrogation, Deepak confessed:
“When I went to Wazirabad to get milk, people used to taunt me, saying I live off my daughter’s earnings. It troubled me a lot. Some even questioned her character. I asked her to close the tennis academy, but she refused. My dignity was hurt. I was stressed. I took out my licensed revolver and shot her while she was cooking.”
According to police, Deepak’s wife, Manju, declined to give a written statement, citing illness and emotional distress. She reportedly went into her room after the incident.
The FIR was lodged by Kuldeep Yadav, Radhika’s uncle and Deepak’s younger brother. Kuldeep recounted that he heard a loud gunshot and rushed to the first floor of the house.
“I saw my niece Radhika lying in the kitchen and a revolver on the drawing room floor,” he stated.
“My son and I rushed her to Asia Moringo Hospital in Sector 56, Gurugram, but doctors declared her dead on arrival.”
Kuldeep, still in shock, described Radhika as a talented athlete who had won many trophies.
“I cannot comprehend what led to this horrible act,” he added. “She was hardworking and had brought pride to the family.”
Deepak Yadav has been arrested and charged with murder under IPC Section 302. The licensed firearm used in the crime has been seized, and a forensic team has collected evidence from the scene.
Authorities are now conducting a deeper inquiry into family dynamics, mental health history, and the neighborhood atmosphere that may have contributed to the crime.
Radhika’s murder has sent shockwaves through the sports community, with many calling for greater support mechanisms for women athletes and highlighting the stigma faced by women who become primary breadwinners.
Condolences and tributes have poured in for Radhika Yadav, who is remembered not only as a rising star in tennis but also as a determined and courageous young woman who continued to chase her passion despite physical setbacks.
(This story is sourced from a third-party syndicated feed. Raavi Media takes no responsibility or liability of any nature. Raavi Media management/ythisnews.com can alter or delete the content without notice for any reason.)