Savy King, the 20-year-old defender for Angel City FC, recently addressed fans with an emotional message following a serious health scare during a match against the Utah Royals on May 9. In a shocking turn of events, King collapsed on the field during the 74th minute of play. Fortunately, prompt medical assistance on site was crucial in saving her life, and she was subsequently transported to a local hospital for further care.
In her first statement since that alarming event, King shared a photo of herself clutching a heart-shaped pillow, symbolizing her recent heart surgery. On Instagram, she conveyed heartfelt appreciation, saying, “I’m still finding the words to express just how much your love and support have meant to me over these past few days.” It’s evident that, following such a distressing experience, she is drawing strength from her close circle.
King expressed her gratitude for having her family and teammates by her side, who came together in support through prayers and acts of kindness. “I know God’s got me, and I’m looking forward to recovering and getting back out on the field!” she closed with an uplifting message of hope.
The situation surrounding her collapse has led to intense scrutiny of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). Following the incident, while players gathered for a prayer circle, the game controversially continued after a 16-minute delay, resulting in a 2-0 win for Angel City FC. This decision was met with fierce backlash from players, fans, and the Players Association, raising concerns about player safety in high-pressure athletic environments.
In response to the uproar, the NWSL issued a statement acknowledging their error in permitting the match to resume. “Having reviewed our protocols and their implementation, and listening to feedback from our stakeholders, the Angel City vs. Utah game [on May 9] should not have continued,” the league admitted. They pledge to better prioritize the health and safety of all players moving forward.
Despite the challenging circumstances, King is expected to make a full recovery, and her determination embodies resilience. Not only is she focused on regaining her health, but she is also advocating for broader discussions on player welfare in sports. In an era where athlete safety is paramount, her experience serves as a compelling reminder of the need for prompt and responsible action during emergencies.
Image Source: Savy King @ Instagram
