Who Was Radhika Yadav?
Radhika Yadav was a 25-year-old professional tennis player from Haryana, India. She was a state-level champion and had participated in several national and international tournaments. Known for her consistency and discipline, she had recently ranked within the top 113 in ITF (International Tennis Federation) women's doubles rankings and was placed 5th in Haryana's women's doubles circuit.
Birth and Early Life
Radhika was born on March 23, 2000, in Haryana. While the exact town of her birth hasn't been publicly disclosed, she was raised and lived in Gurugram (Gurgaon), where she trained and eventually built her own tennis academy.
Age and Career
At the time of her death, Radhika was 25 years old. She had already transitioned from active competition to coaching, dedicating herself to nurturing the next generation of tennis players through her self-run tennis academy in Gurugram. Her move into coaching was seen not as a retreat from the sport, but as a way to extend her impact.
Passion for Tennis
Radhika's passion for tennis was evident from a young age. She was known among peers and coaches as hardworking, focused, and highly competitive. Her Instagram page, where she shared snippets of her training sessions, matches, and coaching routines, reflected her deep connection to the sport.
What Her Neighbors and Friends Say
While her father, Deepak Yadav, allegedly struggled with societal pressure and taunts over living off his daughter's income, Radhika's neighbors and peers spoke of her with respect. She was seen as a role model in her community, particularly for girls looking to break into professional sports. According to locals, she even provided free coaching to underprivileged children.
Her coach and friends described her as disciplined and goal-oriented. "She had the potential to go far as a coach and mentor. She cared about the sport beyond personal fame," one colleague stated.
The Tragic Incident
On July 10, 2025, Radhika was fatally shot at around 10:30 AM while cooking breakfast at her home in Sector 57, Sushant Lok II, Gurugram. Her father, Deepak Yadav, fired five bullets using his licensed .32-bore revolver; three hit her fatally. He was arrested at the scene.
Motive Behind the Murder
Contrary to sensational media reports that claimed she was killed over her Instagram Reels, police later clarified that the primary motive was familial tension and financial resentment. Radhika was the main breadwinner, and Deepak reportedly faced taunts from relatives and neighbors about depending on her income. This sustained pressure reportedly triggered feelings of inferiority and resentment that ultimately led to the violent act.
For a deeper analysis of the motive and how media misreporting shaped the early narrative,
Read the full article on Raga Decode
Was Radhika in a Relationship?
As of now, there is no public information or police confirmation regarding any romantic partner or boyfriend. The investigation and media reports have not indicated the presence of any such relationship, and her public profiles focused solely on her professional life.
Social Media Presence
Radhika maintained a modest presence on Instagram, where she documented her achievements, shared coaching tips, and celebrated student milestones. Her social content was professional and inspirational, aimed at motivating others rather than seeking attention.
Legacy and Reflection
Radhika Yadav's death has become a case study in how patriarchal pressures, financial dependency, and emotional instability can spiral into irreversible violence. Her story is a sobering reminder of the need for mental health awareness, gender equality, and the support systems required to protect independent women from domestic threats.
Final Thoughts
Radhika Yadav lived a life of discipline, ambition, and service. Her tragic death should not overshadow her achievements but instead compel society to reflect on how it treats women who challenge traditional norms. As we mourn her loss, we must also celebrate her legacy and push for structural changes that ensure such talent is nurtured, not extinguished.
