Angel City defender Savy King, aged 20, is poised to make a remarkable comeback to the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) just 10 months after experiencing a life-threatening cardiac arrest during a match. The incident occurred in May of last year when King collapsed on the pitch while playing against Utah Royals, a result of an undetected congenital heart defect that caused her heart to stop beating.
Immediate Response and Recovery Journey
Following the collapse, King required immediate CPR and emergency surgery to address the cardiac arrest. She has since undergone a rigorous 10-month rehabilitation process, which has not only restored her physical health but also transformed her outlook on life and her professional soccer career. In a statement, King expressed profound gratitude for her recovery, highlighting how the experience has reshaped her priorities and deepened her appreciation for the sport.
Launching the Savy King of Hearts Initiative
During her recovery, King founded the "Savy King of Hearts" initiative, a groundbreaking effort that has led to all 16 NWSL teams receiving comprehensive CPR and automated external defibrillator (AED) training. This programme makes the NWSL the only professional sports league in the United States to implement such widespread emergency preparedness measures, aiming to enhance safety for players and staff across the league.
Return to Play and Future Aspirations
Now cleared to play without any medical restrictions, King has already participated in pre-season matches, demonstrating her readiness for competitive action. She is set to feature in Angel City's regular season opener, where she hopes to inspire others facing similar health challenges. King's return is not just a personal triumph but also a testament to resilience and the importance of cardiac awareness in sports.
Her story underscores the critical need for early detection of heart conditions and the value of emergency response training in athletic environments. As she steps back onto the field, King aims to use her platform to advocate for health and safety, ensuring that her ordeal leads to positive changes within the soccer community and beyond.
