Buffalo Sabres captain Rasmus Dahlin has taken an indefinite leave of absence from the team to support his fiancée, Carolina Matovac, as she recovers from a heart transplant in Sweden. The team confirmed the decision in a press release, highlighting the personal challenges Dahlin faces and the team’s commitment to supporting him during this difficult time. While the exact duration of his absence is uncertain, the focus remains on Matovac’s health, which has been the central concern for Dahlin and his family.
Head coach Lindy Ruff addressed the media on Friday, emphasizing that Matovac’s condition has not worsened and that Dahlin will be traveling to Sweden to be with her. Ruff described the situation as deeply personal, stating, “[Dahlin] said everything is OK. I think it’s been incredibly hard. I fully understand what this young man is going through.” He praised Dahlin’s resilience and the support he has received from the team and its fans, noting that this situation extends beyond the sport itself. “This is larger than hockey,” Ruff added, acknowledging the immense emotional and psychological impact on Dahlin.
Dahlin, 25, is in his eighth season with the Sabres after being drafted first overall in 2018. Known for his skill as a Swedish defenseman, he has consistently excelled in the NHL, recording over 50 points in each of his previous four seasons. His commitment to the team and his high level of play have made him a fan favorite. However, this personal crisis has temporarily shifted his focus from the rink to the hospital. Dahlin has emphasized the importance of his fiancée’s recovery, stating in an open letter to fans that Matovac’s health is the top priority.
In September, Dahlin shared details about Matovac’s condition, describing how she experienced a severe heart failure episode during a vacation, which required multiple CPR interventions to keep her alive. Without these life-saving efforts, the outcome could have been devastating. Matovac was placed on life support for weeks before undergoing a heart transplant in France. Despite the severity of her illness, she is now making progress, and Dahlin has expressed admiration for her strength, optimism, and determination. He has also acknowledged the invaluable care provided by medical professionals, recognizing their role in her survival and recovery.
The timeline for Dahlin’s return to the team remains uncertain, with no official announcement on when he will be back in action. The Sabres have made it clear that their support for Dahlin is unwavering, and they understand the gravity of the situation. Fans have also shown solidarity, with many expressing their concern and encouragement for Dahlin and his fiancée. The incident has sparked discussions about the challenges athletes face when dealing with personal crises, emphasizing the importance of mental and emotional well-being alongside physical health.
Dahlin’s situation underscores the balance between professional obligations and personal responsibilities, a challenge that many athletes face. While his absence from the team will undoubtedly impact their performance, the emotional and psychological support from his teammates and fans is a critical aspect of his recovery. As Matovac continues her rehabilitation, the hope is that she will soon begin her journey back to health, allowing Dahlin to return to the ice. The situation highlights the human side of sports, reminding everyone that behind every athlete is a person with personal struggles and a family to care for, beyond the game itself.