Angel City’s Savy King Responsive After On-Field Collapse

In a poignant moment during the NWSL game between Angel City FC and Utah Royals FC, defender Savy King experienced a medical incident. This left fans and players concerned for her well-being.

Savy King’s Sudden Collapse

The incident occurred 74 minutes into the match at BMO Stadium, Los Angeles. King, 20, unexpectedly collapsed on the field. Emergency medical teams quickly attended to her, providing urgent care before transporting her to a local hospital. Reports indicate that King is now responsive and with family.

Unified Support from Teams

Demonstrating the spirit of sportsmanship, players and staff from both Angel City FC and Utah Royals FC gathered for a moment of unity after the game. Alex Loera, a Utah defender and former teammate of King, led the moving prayer circle. This highlighted the strong bond within the soccer community despite fierce on-field rivalries.

Coach Eleri Earnshaw’s Updates

Eleri Earnshaw led Angel City in the absence of interim head coach Sam Laity. She praised the swift actions of both the medical staff and players like Megan Reid, who used her paramedic training to reassure the team. Earnshaw emphasized the collective effort to keep spirits high, underscoring the importance of unity in challenging times.

Controversy Over Game Continuation

Although the match eventually resumed with Angel City securing a 2-0 victory, Utah Royals head coach Jimmy Coenraets questioned the decision to continue playing. Emotionally charged, players from both teams expressed concerns about safety and focus. This mirrored a broader discussion within the league about protocols for such situations.

NWSL Guidelines and Future Implications

The incident raises crucial questions about NWSL’s response to emergencies. While rules dictate that serious incidents trigger evaluations for postponements, the decision to proceed with the match remains under scrutiny. The Athletic has reached out to the NWSL for clarity on the decision-making process.

Savy King’s Promising Career

Despite this setback, King’s contributions to Angel City FC remain significant. Since joining from Bay FC, she has been a regular starter and a formidable force on the field. She also represents the United States Under-19 and Under-20 teams.

This incident, while alarming, showcases the resilience of athletes and the unwavering support networks within the sports community. As King recovers, her presence will undoubtedly be missed. Still, the focus on her health and safety underscores the priority given to player welfare.

Source: The Athletic