In a move that has left the world stunned and deeply moved, world tennis champion Iga Świątek has donated her entire Wimbledon prize money to support the grieving family of Indian tennis prodigy Radhika Yadav, who was tragically murdered by her own father earlier this month.
Świątek, known for her steely focus and grace on court, took a moment during her post-final press conference to make the announcement. “This isn’t just about tennis,” she said, holding back tears. “It’s about humanity, justice, and remembering a young talent who never got the chance to shine.”
Świątek’s tribute was both powerful and personal. “I feel heartbroken for a young rising player — goodbye, Radhika,” she said, her voice trembling. The Polish star revealed that she had been following Radhika’s junior career from afar and was inspired by her resilience and spirit.
“This could have been her moment. She deserved the world, not what she got,” Świątek said, calling the tragedy “a brutal reminder of the silent suffering many girls still face in the shadows.”
But Świątek didn’t stop at financial support. She used her global platform to condemn the brutal act, publicly labelling Radhika’s father a “cold-blooded killer” and calling on international justice systems to ensure he faces the full extent of the law.
“I call on the world — on every sports organisation, legal body, and human being with a conscience — to make sure this man never walks free again,” she said to thunderous applause from the Wimbledon media room.
Świątek’s gesture is now being hailed as one of the most compassionate and courageous acts in modern sport. Social media has erupted with support, with #JusticeForRadhika and #IgaTheInspiration trending globally within hours.
Indian tennis federations and global human rights organisations have praised Świątek, with many saying her act could spark a much-needed conversation about gender-based violence in sports and beyond.
The exact amount of Świątek’s donation is estimated to be over £2.35 million – her full Wimbledon prize purse. But more than the money, it is the message that resonates. In Świątek’s own words: “Let this be a wake-up call. Let Radhika’s name live on not in silence, but in justice, in change.”
