Shocking new claims have emerged in the murder of rising tennis star Radhika Yadav, as a close friend has alleged the killing was premeditated and followed a period of emotional torment.
Himaanshika Singh Rajput, who identifies herself as Radhika's best friend, released the second part of a video on Saturday in which she details what she describes as the final days of the 19-year-old athlete's life. Radhika was murdered by her father, Deepak Yadav, on Thursday, July 10, at their home in Gurugram, Haryana.
In the video, Himaanshika claims that Radhika had been enduring "10 days of pain" leading up to her death. She alleges that Radhika had attempted to appease her father, reportedly telling him she was willing to do "whatever he says" in an effort to avoid conflict.
Calling the act "premeditated," Himaanshika said that Radhika’s father had been planning her murder for at least three days. “This wasn’t a sudden outburst—it was a calculated decision,” she said in the video.
Investigators have not officially confirmed the claims, but a preliminary police probe has suggested that Deepak Yadav, 49, may have harbored resentment over his daughter’s growing success on the tennis court and her increasing social media following.
The case has shocked the sports community and drawn national attention, with calls for a deeper investigation into the mental health and family dynamics behind the tragedy.
Police have taken Deepak Yadav into custody and are continuing their investigation. Radhika Yadav had been regarded as a promising young talent in Indian tennis, with several junior titles to her name and a rapidly growing fanbase online.
Authorities have not yet responded to the new allegations made by Himaanshika Singh Rajput.
