Radhika Yadav Shot Dead by Father in Gurugram Over her career and Lifestyle
Gurugram Shocker: Rising Tennis Star Radhika Yadav Shot Dead by Father Over Academy Dispute
Gurugram, July 11, 2025 — In a deeply disturbing incident that has shocked the Indian sports community, 24-year-old tennis player Radhika Yadav was shot dead by her father, Deepak Yadav, allegedly over a long-standing dispute concerning her tennis academy and financial independence.
The tragic shooting took place earlier this week in Gurugram, Haryana. According to police sources, the altercation escalated when Deepak reportedly objected to various aspects of Radhika’s career and lifestyle—including her public appearance in a music video and the management of her tennis academy.
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Music Video Appearance Triggered More Tension
Police are also exploring another possible trigger—Radhika’s appearance in a music video titled “Karwaan”, produced by LLF Records and released about a year ago. The video features her alongside artist INAAM and was shared across social media platforms.
Sources close to the investigation revealed that Deepak Yadav objected strongly to her participation in the video and had asked Radhika to remove it from her accounts, which she declined to do. While the primary conflict remains centered on the tennis academy, this incident appears to have further strained their already fragile relationship.
The Shocking Details of the Incident
An FIR was filed at Gurugram’s Sector 56 police station following the fatal shooting. Investigators say Deepak Yadav has admitted to firing at his daughter, citing repeated taunts over his financial dependence on her as the tipping point.
“He wanted her to shut down the tennis academy, but she refused. He finally shot her dead over the same dispute,” said a senior police officer.
The family had been embroiled in ongoing disagreements, especially around the academy, which Radhika had recently established to train young players. Police officials believe that tensions surrounding control, finances, and autonomy had been simmering for months.
Who Was Radhika Yadav?
Born on March 23, 2000, Radhika Yadav was an emerging star in Indian tennis. She held a career-high ITF women’s doubles ranking of 113 as of November 4, 2024, and ranked fifth in Haryana in women’s doubles.
An alumna of Scottish High International School, she graduated Class 12 with a commerce background in 2018. Radhika was described by her coaches and friends as hardworking, spirited, and deeply passionate about mentoring the next generation of tennis talent through her academy.
She had been recovering from a shoulder injury and undergoing physiotherapy but remained active in training and mentoring roles.
“She was a cheerful personality, often seen celebrating her victories with her father in social media reels. It’s heartbreaking,” said a police officer familiar with the case.
Investigation Underway
Gurugram Police have launched a detailed investigation. Authorities are currently examining:
- Radhika’s mobile phone and digital history
- Her social media posts, including those related to the music video
- Testimonies from family members and acquaintances
- Financial and ownership records of the tennis academy
Officials said other possible motives, including relationship issues and personal freedom, are also being looked into, though the main focus remains the dispute over control of her academy.
Legal Action and Public Response
The accused father is in police custody and is expected to face charges under Section 302 of the Indian Penal Code (murder). Legal experts suggest the case will proceed quickly, given the direct confession and forensic evidence.
The incident has sparked outrage on social media, with users expressing grief and anger over the tragic end to a young and promising athlete’s life. Prominent tennis players and celebrities have called for greater awareness on domestic violence, even in well-educated and seemingly functional families.