Angel City FC defender Savy King underwent heart surgery Tuesday, four days after collapsing during a home game against the Utah Royals.
The team said the King was treated at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles. King was admitted to the facility on Saturday morning after initially receiving care at California Hospital Medical Center.
“After thorough evaluation, doctors discovered a heart abnormality and Savy underwent successful surgery (Tuesday) to address it,” the team said in a statement.
“She is now resting and recovering surrounded by her family, and her prognosis is excellent. We are incredibly thankful for the outstanding medical care she has received and the overwhelming support from our community. We kindly ask for continued respect for Savy’s privacy as she focuses on healing.”
King collapsed in the 74th minute and medical personnel appeared to be administering cardiopulmonary resuscitation to the 20-year-old. She was carted off the field with an oxygen mask on her face and taken away via ambulance.
Players from both teams gathered in a prayer circle, and the match was delayed 10 minutes.
King’s family also released a statement Tuesday night to express appreciation for the support they have received.
“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,” the family said. “We are blessed to share that Savy is recovering well and we are looking forward to having her home with us soon.
“We want to thank the incredible Angel City medical staff and players who acted swiftly as well as the medical teams that have given her such exceptional care. We will never forget the kindness and care you’ve shown, our gratitude is endless.”
King, 20, has been a starter for Angel City in all eight matches this season. She has no goals or assists and two yellow cards.
The first-ever draft pick (second overall) of expansion Bay FC in 2024, King played 18 matches and made 12 starts last season for the San Jose-based club. She had two assists and one yellow card last year.
The Southern California native played for the University of North Carolina before entering the NWSL. She also made numerous appearances for the U.S. youth national under-17 and under-20 teams.
Angel City returns to action Saturday night with a road game against Bay FC.
–Field Level Media
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