Gurugram Shocker: Tennis Star’s Murder Exposes Father’s Controlling Grip

On July 10, 2025, 25-year-old tennis player Radhika Yadav was fatally shot by her father, Deepak Yadav, at their Gurugram home in Sector 57, sending shockwaves through India’s sports community. Deepak, 49, fired five bullets, four striking Radhika—three in her back and one in her shoulder. Despite being rushed to a hospital, she succumbed to her injuries. Her last rites were held in Wazirabad village on July 11. Deepak, arrested and now in 14-day judicial custody, confessed to the crime, citing taunts from villagers about living off Radhika’s tennis academy earnings as a motive, though police say he planned the murder for days.

Himaanshika Singh Rajput, Radhika’s best friend and fellow tennis player, revealed a chilling backdrop of emotional abuse in two viral Instagram videos. She described Radhika’s life under her father’s suffocating control, with her parents shaming her for wearing shorts, talking to boys, or pursuing independence. “She had to justify every move, even on video calls. Her academy was 50 meters away, yet she couldn’t be late,” Himaanshika said, noting Radhika abandoned her love for photography due to family pressure. In her final 10 days, Radhika, broken by relentless criticism, agreed to her father’s restrictions, but Deepak, allegedly influenced by envious friends, shot her anyway.

Police dismissed rumors of a communal “love jihad” motive, confirming the conflict centered on Radhika’s academy and her father’s insecurity over her success. A WhatsApp chat with her coach revealed her desire to leave home, possibly for a career abroad, following a shoulder injury. Deepak’s brother, Vijay, said he expressed remorse, stating he “should be hanged.” The tragedy highlights the devastating impact of patriarchal control, with Himaanshika questioning, “How long will women suffer under male egos?”

Also Read: Gurugram Shocker: Tennis Star Shot Dead by Father

Also Read: Gurugram Shocker: Tennis Star Shot Dead by Father