NWSL to Abandon Matches During Life-Threatening Emergencies After Savy King Collapse

The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) has confirmed that future matches will be abandoned in the event of life-threatening medical emergencies, following the collapse of Angel City FC defender Savy King during a match against the Utah Royals on May 9.

In a statement to ESPN, the league admitted that the match “should not have continued,” adding: “The health and well-being of the entire NWSL community remains our top priority, and in any similar situation going forward the game should and would be abandoned.”

The decision comes after widespread criticism from players and coaches. After the final whistle, both teams gathered in the center circle in a show of support and prayer for King. USWNT forward Trinity Rodman voiced her frustration on Instagram: “In no world should that game have continued.”

Utah Royals head coach Jimmy Coenraets echoed that sentiment: “Emotionally, not only their players but ours as well were scared. I’m not sure we should have continued. But that decision wasn’t in our hands. It was a really tough moment.”

The updated protocol marks a significant step toward player safety, acknowledging that emotional and physical well-being must take precedence over competition.