NWSL speaks out about Savy enigma
In the wake of fierce criticism from the National Women's Soccer League Players Association, spectators, and fans alike, the NWSL has finally weighed in on the decision to carry on with the match between Angel City FC and Utah Royals FC following defender Savy King's shocking on-field collapse.
Shedding light on the growing furore, the league made a public statement to ESPN, admitting that calling off the remainder of the match was indeed the right move.
"Upon evaluation of our protocols and their implementation, and after listening to input from all quarters, the Angel City vs. Utah game [on May 9] should never have proceeded," the NWSL's statement reads.
"The well-being of every individual within the NWSL community continues to be our utmost concern, and in any similar instances going forward, the game would be halted in its tracks."
The Players Association, which had been vocal about its disapproval of the NWSL's initial decision, released a statement celebrating the league's concession.
"The League's recognition that the game should have ended, along with their commitment to establishing emergency protocols going forward, symbolizes a significant stride forward," the NWSLPA declared in its response.
"This transformation is a testament to the strength and solidarity of our players. Player safety is not just a catchphrase; it's an essential practice. We acknowledge the League for listening."
While Alexis Ohanian and Serena Williams invest in women's sports ownership, USWNT legend Alex Morgan joins the growing list of NWSL investors. Nike reveals fresh, bold kits for the USWNT's 40th anniversary, and interim head coach Sam Laity weighs in, expressing relief over Savy's successful surgery and expressing gratitude for the medical team that supported her.
"Everyone's overjoyed to learn that Savy's operation was a resounding success, and the forecast for her future looks promising," Laity shared.
"Regarding the game continuation, I concur with the League's recent statements, and they are taking tangible steps to ensure that similar incidents are handled differently in the future."
As players from both teams were noticeably distraught during King's treatment on the pitch and her hospitalization, they huddled at midfield and interlocked arms, eventually resuming play from the 74th minute. ACFC secured a 2-0 victory.
King, selected as the No. 2 pick in the 2024 NWSL Draft, is now making a steady recovery after diagnoses of a heart abnormality required her to undergo surgery. Having been traded to her hometown team, Angel City, in February, she is said to be healing swiftly with a positive outlook.
The NWSL, after thoroughly reassessing their protocols and considering feedback from all parties, has announced that a future game, in the event of a similar situation, would be halted immediately for the safety of all players, reflecting a shift in their commitment to player safety. Savy King, a star defender who underwent emergency surgery following an on-field collapse, is progressing well in her recovery and is anticipated to make a full return to the sport, having been drafted as the second pick in the 2024 NWSL Draft and recently traded to her hometown team, Angel City FC.
