In a heartbreaking and shocking incident that has shaken the nation, 25-year-old Radhika Yadav, a promising state-level tennis player, was shot dead by her father on July 10, 2025, in their home while she was cooking in the kitchen. This tragedy was not the result of any external crime, but a dark result of deep-rooted patriarchy and fragile male ego.
Here’s everything you need to know about Radhika’s inspiring journey, her achievements, and the unfortunate end to her life.
🎾 Who Was Radhika Yadav?
Radhika Yadav was not just any young woman. She was a talented tennis player who had made her mark in both national and international tennis rankings.
- Ranked 113th in ITF doubles
- Top 5 in Haryana Women’s Doubles
- Ranked 75th in AITA U-18 category
- Maintained a Top 100 rank for 11 weeks
- Highest AITA singles rank: 35, and doubles: 53
Radhika had temporarily stopped playing due to a shoulder injury, but she never gave up on her passion. She started a tennis academy to train the next generation of players.
💔 What Happened on July 10, 2025?
That day, like any normal evening, Radhika was cooking dinner for her family. But without warning, her father Deepak Yadav shot her multiple times from behind using his licensed revolver.
Three bullets hit her waist, and she died before any help could arrive. The news left the local community, sports lovers, and the entire nation shocked.
😡 Why Did Her Father Kill Her?
At first, it was believed to be over a disagreement regarding a social media reel. But later, during police interrogation, Deepak confessed the real reason.
He was angry because:
- Villagers mocked him for living off his daughter’s earnings.
- He felt “insulted” as a man.
- He asked her to shut down her tennis academy, but she refused.
- There were unfounded remarks on her character by others.
- He believed her independence was hurting his pride.
Unable to handle what he called “tension”, he committed this shocking act — proving how dangerous patriarchal mindset can be when mixed with fragile ego.
🧠 A Hard Truth About Society
Radhika’s murder is not just a family issue — it reflects a much larger problem in Indian society. A daughter was punished for being ambitious, independent, and successful.
Instead of being celebrated, her success made her father feel “small.” This reveals how toxic masculinity and outdated thinking still dominate many households.
This tragedy is a wake-up call that gender equality is still far from reality — even for strong, talented, and accomplished women like Radhika.
Conclusion
Radhika Yadav’s story is not just about a daughter who lost her life, it’s about millions of young women in India who are still fighting the same battles — against insecurity, societal pressure, and outdated thinking.
She was a symbol of hard work and determination, but her life was cut short by the person who was supposed to protect her — her own father.
Her murder should not be forgotten. It should start a conversation about protecting women’s rights, dreams, and lives — not just in law, but in mindset.
FAQs
Who was Radhika Yadav?
Radhika Yadav was a 25-year-old state-level tennis player who had achieved national and international rankings. She also ran a tennis academy in Haryana.
How did Radhika die?
She was shot dead by her own father on July 10, 2025, while cooking in the kitchen.
Why did her father kill her?
Her father, Deepak Yadav,