NWSL Faces Backlash After Savy King’s Collapse
The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) was under attack following the decision to continue a match after Angel City FC defender Savy King collapsed on the field, later requiring emergency heart surgery. King collapsed in the 74th minute because of a heart condition. The decision to return to play after a short delay ignited a debate on whether or not the game should have continued to the final score of 2-0 in favor of Angel City FC, which currently ranks in seventh place on the NWSL table. Was there enough concern for player safety protocols? What is the league’s responsibility during medical emergencies? Was the proper protocol and respect shown for the player and for the match?
It was a Frightening Incident on the Field
It happened on May 9, 2025, during the women’s soccer match between Angel City FC and the Utah Royals at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles.
Few people ever think a 20-year-old soccer player would collapse on the field and need life-saving treatment, including chest compressions. But this is what happened and should serve as a reminder how life is precious…. 
Fans watched as defender King was carried off the field on a stretcher and transported to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center where doctors diagnosed a heart abnormality. King underwent successful surgery and her prognosis is excellent.
Controversy Over Continuing the Match
Despite the severity of the incident, the match resumed after approximately a reportedly 10-minute delay.
Perhaps the officials were in shock and just wanted some degree of normalcy to return but the decision to continue the match sparked significant criticism from players, coaches, and the NWSL Players Association (NWSLPA).
Across the news and in social media, Utah Royals head coach Jimmy Coenraets has expressed that the game should not have continued, and U.S. national team forward Trinity Rodman wrote, “In no world should that game have continued.”
However, the match recap on Angel City FC doesn’t mention the incident at all.
NWSL Acknowledges the Poor Decision and Promises Change
In response to the backlash, the NWSL acknowledged on May 16 that the match should have been halted.
The league stated, “Having reviewed our protocols and how they were implemented, and in listening to feedback from our stakeholders, the Angel City vs. Utah game last Friday night should not have continued and we regret that it did.”
National Women’s Soccer League commissioner Jessica Berman spoke publicly to the media on Saturday. As reported by the New York Times, she said “Our focus was really on making sure that the player was cared for during the game, and so we were quite relieved and pleased that she had the resources and that Angel City’s medical team really managed her care effortlessly and amazingly.”
The NWSL committed to updating its protocols to ensure that any future incidents requiring life-saving medical attention will result in the immediate suspension of play.
Players and Fans Unite in Support
Recognition and loyalty shines bright on the pitch: ln the match on May 17 between Angel City FC and Bay FC, players from both teams honored Savy King by wearing black “SK3” shirts and displaying heart-shaped signs with her number. The emotional atmosphere underscored the solidarity and support within the league for King’s recovery and a renewed emphasis on player safety.
A Turning Point for Player Safety
The incident has prompted the NWSL to reevaluate its emergency response protocols, emphasizing that player safety must be a tangible practice, not merely a slogan. The league’s acknowledgment and commitment to change represent a meaningful step forward in prioritizing the health and well-being of its players.
