Promising Indian tennis player Radhika Yadav shot dead by father in Gurugram

Dubai: Indian tennis player Radhika Yadav, 25, was shot dead by her father at their residence in Gurgaon on Thursday afternoon, according to Indian media reports.

The young athlete, who had competed in several national and international tournaments, was shot three times after her father reportedly fired five rounds at her. A police spokesperson confirmed that the father has been detained and a licensed revolver used in the crime has been seized. The motive for the shooting is under investigation.

Engagement with Instagram reels

Preliminary reports suggest domestic discord may have led to the tragic incident. Some unverified sources have alleged that the father was unhappy with Radhika’s social media presence, particularly her active engagement with Instagram reels. However, authorities have not confirmed these claims.

No other family member was present at the time of the incident. Radhika was rushed to a nearby private hospital in critical condition but succumbed to her injuries shortly after arrival. The hospital alerted the police after confirming her death.

Promising talent in Indian tennis

Born on March 23, 2000, Radhika was regarded as a promising talent in Indian tennis. She achieved a career-high ranking of 113 in the ITF women’s doubles circuit, earning 10 international points. Within India, she was ranked fifth in Haryana in women’s doubles and was considered among the top emerging players, alongside contemporaries like Poorvi Bhatt and Thaniya Sarai Gogulamanda.

According to All India Tennis Association (AITA) records, Radhika had also held national rankings of 75 in girls under-18, 35 in women’s singles, and 53 in women’s doubles.

Sending shockwaves

The news of her death has sent shockwaves across the Indian tennis community, with fellow athletes and friends expressing their grief on social media. Many remembered her as a passionate and hard-working player with a bright future ahead.

Police investigations are ongoing as the tennis community mourns the loss of a young life and a promising sports career cut tragically short.