Why Did Tennis Player Radhika Yadav's Father Kill Her? FIR Uncovers Motive

In a shocking and deeply disturbing incident, promising tennis player Radhika Yadav was allegedly shot dead by her father at their home in Gurugram’s Sector 57 on Thursday morning. The motive, according to police, was rooted in resentment over societal taunts and her insistence on continuing with her tennis academy.

The 25-year-old athlete, who had represented India in multiple tournaments and reached a career-best ITF doubles ranking of 113 in November 2024, was reportedly shot while she was preparing food in the kitchen. Her father, Deepak Yadav, 49, allegedly fired five rounds from his licensed revolver, three of which fatally struck her from behind.

Radhika’s uncle, Kuldeep Yadav, who lives on the ground floor of the same house, filed the complaint. He told police he heard loud noises around 10.30 am and rushed upstairs, only to find his niece lying in a pool of blood. Her mother was also present in the home at the time of the incident.

According to Gurugram Police spokesperson Sandeep Kumar, Deepak Yadav has been arrested and charged with murder. "The bullets were fired from his licensed revolver. A case is being registered, and he is in custody," Kumar told TOI.

Motive Behind Killing Radhika Yadav

The investigation revealed that Radhika, a former state-level player who had turned to coaching after a shoulder injury, had opened a tennis academy for children.

Police investigations and the FIR reveal that Deepak Yadav was deeply unhappy with his daughter running the academy, primarily due to persistent taunts from others who accused him of "living off his daughter's earnings." 

Despite repeated arguments, Radhika refused to shut the academy, leading to what police now say was a culmination of frustration and rage. "He was unhappy that she didn’t listen. That’s what triggered this tragic act," said an officer.

Radhika, born on March 23, 2000, was considered one of Haryana’s most promising tennis players. She ranked fifth in the state’s women’s doubles and had already begun to make her mark internationally.

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