NWSL says game should not have continued after Savy King collapsed on the field

The decision to continue a game between Angel City and the Utah Royals after player Savy King collapsed on the field and had to be hospitalized has sparked controversy in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). The league announced on Friday that, upon reviewing its protocols and listening to feedback from stakeholders, it should not have allowed the match to proceed.

Last Friday, during the game in Los Angeles, 20-year-old Angel City defender Savy King collapsed on the field and had to be carted off while visibly shaken players and fans watched on. Following the incident, King underwent surgery to address a heart abnormality, with the team confirming that she is recovering well.

The NWSL Players Association was vocal in its criticism of the league’s decision to continue the game after King’s collapse. In a statement released on Friday, the players’ union expressed gratitude that the league had acknowledged its mistake and committed to adopting new protocols for similar situations in the future.

The NWSL stated that it is currently reviewing its protocols and emphasized that player safety is of utmost importance. The league has the authority to suspend, cancel, or postpone games in the event of emergencies or situations that may jeopardize the well-being of participants and spectators.

Angel City’s interim coach, Sam Laity, thanked the medical professionals who treated King and the outpouring of support from the soccer community. He expressed relief that King’s surgery was successful and her prognosis is positive. Laity also agreed with the league’s decision to reevaluate its procedures to ensure better handling of such incidents moving forward.

Savy King, the second-overall pick in the 2024 NWSL draft, had been a key player for Angel City this season after being traded to the team in February. She had started in all eight games for the club before her health scare.

The NWSL’s acknowledgment of its misstep and commitment to improving its protocols demonstrate a step in the right direction for ensuring the safety and well-being of players. As the league continues to prioritize player safety, it is crucial to learn from past incidents and implement changes that prioritize the health of all involved in the game.