Angel City Defender Savy King Recovering After Heart Surgery
In a dramatic turn of events that has sent ripples through the National Women’s Soccer League, Angel City defender Savy King is on the mend following a heart surgery. The young athlete’s health scare unfolded during a match on Friday night, leaving fans and players alike in shock.
King’s ordeal began when she collapsed on the field during the second half of Angel City’s match against the Utah Royals. The incident prompted immediate medical attention, and she was swiftly transported to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles. There, doctors identified a heart abnormality, necessitating surgery, which took place on Tuesday.
In a reassuring update, Angel City released a statement saying, “She is now resting and recovering surrounded by her family, and her prognosis is excellent.” This news has undoubtedly brought relief to the soccer community, which has been anxiously following her progress.
King’s family also expressed their gratitude in a joint statement, acknowledging the outpouring of support from various quarters. “On behalf of our entire family, along with Savy, we have been so moved by the love and support from Angel City players, staff, fans and community, as well as soccer fans across the country,” they said. “We are blessed to share Savy is recovering well and we are looking forward to having her home with us soon.”
The scene on the field was one of concern and solidarity as players from both teams were visibly shaken by the incident. Trainers rushed to King’s side after her collapse in the 74th minute, and she was attended to for approximately 10 minutes before being stretchered off the field on a cart. Angel City later confirmed that King was responsive and undergoing further evaluation at the hospital.
The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) also weighed in, expressing gratitude for the swift and efficient response by the Angel City medical staff and local paramedics. “We are grateful to the Angel City medical staff as well as to local paramedics who handled this difficult situation seamlessly,” the league stated on Saturday.
In the wake of the incident, Washington Spirit national team forward Trinity Rodman took to Instagram to offer her prayers for King and her family. She also voiced a sentiment shared by many, stating, “In no world should that game have continued.”
The league has since announced that it will review its policies to determine if changes are necessary. According to the NWSL rules for 2025, the league “recognizes that emergencies may arise which make the start or progression of a Game inadvisable or dangerous for participants and spectators. Certain event categories automatically trigger the League Office into an evaluation of whether delay or postponement is necessary.”
- 12 minutes of stoppage time were added to the match.
- Angel City emerged victorious with a 2-0 win.
King, who is just 20 years old, was the No. 2 pick in the 2024 NWSL draft by expansion Bay FC. She played 18 games for the club before being traded to Angel City in February. Since joining Angel City, she has been a consistent presence on the field, starting in all eight games this season.
As the soccer world rallies around Savy King, her story serves as a poignant reminder of the unpredictability of life and the importance of community support. The outpouring of love and concern from fans, players, and officials underscores the tight-knit nature of the soccer community, which stands united in wishing King a swift and full recovery.
Originally Written by: ESPN.com
