Angel City defender Savy King was treated for a heart abnormality and has been released from the hospital, just more than a week after she collapsed during a match. She was hospitalized following a cardiac event that occurred during a National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) game on May 9. The 2,000-year-old player was taken to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, where doctors conducted surgery to address the heart issue. King’s condition is reported to be stable, and she has been declared fit for release by medical professionals.
King’s collapse during play ignited a significant debate within the soccer community about the NWSL’s policies on continuing a match during a medical emergency. The league has since acknowledged the need for a review of its protocols. Following the incident, the NWSL Players Association expressed its concerns about the decision to allow the game to continue, calling for changes to the league’s approach in such situations. The league has since issued a statement expressing regret for allowing the match to go on and has pledged to prioritize player health in future scenarios.
Despite the incident, the match continued with both teams playing the rest of the game. However, this decision was widely criticized by players, fans, and medical professionals, who argued that the safety of the players should take precedence over the game. The league has since stated that any future medical emergencies that require life-saving care will result in the immediate stoppage of play.
Angel City’s team has shown support for King, with players, fans, and staff expressing their solidarity and well-wishes. The team has also taken steps to honor her contribution, with a game against Bay FC featuring tribute elements, including special jerseys and a team photo with King’s jersey. Angel City’s captain, Sarah Gorden, also participated in a tribute, holding up King’s jersey during the photo session.
King’s condition and the incident have sparked a broader conversation about the risks associated with elite sports and the importance of immediate medical intervention. The NWSL Commissioner has also spoken out about the situation, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive review of protocols to ensure that player safety is the top priority moving forward.
Savy King was the second-overall pick in the 2024 NWSL draft by expansion Bay FC and played 18 games for the club before being traded to Angel City in February. Her collapse and subsequent hospitalization have been a pivotal moment for the league and have highlighted the urgent need for improved medical safeguards in professional sports.