
via Imago
Credits: Instagram/Angel City

via Imago
Credits: Instagram/Angel City
Matchday 8 of NWSL took a rather unfortunate turn. A shocking incident struck like dark clouds during the Angel City vs. Utah Royals clash, as Savy King collapsed on the pitch while in action. Play was halted for over 10 minutes, and she was eventually carted off the field. Since then, the entire soccer community has been in shock, anxiously awaiting reassurance about her condition and keeping the 20-year-old in their prayers.
Sure, after the match, a subtle “She’s in great hands” update was shared. However, anxiety still lingered around the youngster’s condition—until now. Fear not, as both ACFC and Savy King’s family have now shared a detailed health update. Admitted to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center on Saturday morning, she underwent several tests, through which doctors were able to diagnose the issue.
A detailed yet concise analysis was shared by Angel City Communications on X, stating, “After thorough evaluation, doctors discovered a heart abnormality and Savy underwent successful surgery today to address it. She is now resting and recovering surrounded by her family, and her prognosis is excellent.”
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The Los Angeles-based club expressed their gratitude for being able to provide their starlet with outstanding medical care. They also acknowledged the overwhelming support Savy King has received from the entire soccer community but urged continued respect for her privacy, as she remains solely focused on healing.
Statements by Angel City FC and the Family of Savy King. pic.twitter.com/4qskjZtTpq
— Angel City FC (@weareangelcity) May 14, 2025
Subsequently, ACFC also shared a statement from King’s family. “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. We are blessed to share Savy is recovering well and we are looking forward to having her home with us soon.”
While extending a special thanks to the “incredible” Angel City medical staff and players who acted swiftly, as well as the medical teams providing exceptional care. Further expressing their deep gratitude for the kindness and care shown to the player, King’s family said, “In moments like these, we’re reminded of God’s constant presence and protection. Thank you all for lifting Savy up in your prayers.”
Indeed, this is quite a relieving update regarding the former Bay FC defender. Even though the doctors were able to find some heart abnormalities in King, the good thing is that a successful surgery helped her tackle that scare. For now, the best way for the Angel City star is to take enough rest.
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Does Savy King's recovery highlight the resilience of athletes or the need for better medical protocols?
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Moreover, she should also be made aware of the potential causes of such situations. Not to mention how cardiovascular-related cases have been increasing rapidly, especially in the beautiful game. After all, who can forget when, in 2021, Danish midfield maestro Christian Eriksen suffered a cardiac arrest during Denmark’s Euro 2020 opener against Finland. While he was back to the top flight of soccer not too long after that, the incident had left the entire soccer world in shock.
And as Savy King continued to recover from her health scare, the NWSL world did not about her, giving her remarkable tribute.
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The entire NWSL community has Savy King in their prayers
Notably, during the week, rival clubs Seattle Reign and Houston Dash paid a touching tribute to Savy King. Ahead of kickoff, as both team captains approached for the coin toss, the Reign brought out a jersey that had King’s name and number on it. The captains and match officials then came together for a photo holding up the jersey high.

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Source: Instagram/Savy King
The moment was later shared on X with a heartfelt caption: “As we take the field today alongside Houston Dash, our thoughts are with Savy King, her family, and our friends at Angel City. 💙” Of course, the show of support didn’t go unnoticed as Angel City co-founder and president Julie Uhrman acknowledged the tribute by replying in the comments: “Thank you 🖤.”
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Likewise, alongside the outpouring of messages from across the league, another powerful moment came right after the Angel City vs. Utah Royals game. Players and staff from both teams gathered at midfield, forming a large circle and linking arms in prayer for King’s recovery. It’s clear that as she focuses on healing, Savy King remains in the hearts and thoughts of the entire NWSL community.
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Does Savy King's recovery highlight the resilience of athletes or the need for better medical protocols?