NWSL player Savannah DeMelo collapsed shortly before half time of Racing Louisville’s fixture with Seattle Reign on Sunday. The match subsequently suspended.
The 27-year-old was taken by ambulance to a local hospital, and was said to be “stable and alert” later on Sunday, according to club officials.
DeMelo collapsed in the 47th minute of Louisville’s NWSL fixture against Seattle on Sunday evening. The midfielder sat on the turf before falling backwards – where she was held by teammates as medical assistance arrived before being taken to hospital in an ambulance.
DeMelo later took to social media to express her gratitude to the club and teammates, saying: “I’m lucky to have my family with me while I’m waiting for test results to come back,”
DeMelo, who has won seven caps for the USA, said.”I’m extremely thankful to our whole medical staff for the quick response. They’ve been with me every step of the way.
“The support from everyone has truly meant the world to me, and I’m excited to cheer on the girls this week.”
The match which ended in a goalless draw was also suspended after match officials elected to abandon the rest of the fixture following DeMelo’s medical emergency.
The NWSL Players’ Association later released a statement soon after backing the league for taking the decision to postpone the match: “Our hearts are with Savannah DeMelo and her family following last night’s game. Her health and well-being remain our top priority, and we are relieved she is receiving the medical attention she needs.
“Postponing the match was the right decision, as nothing is more important than the safety of Players and staff on the field. This is a challenging time for all those affected, and we ask for continued respect of everyone’s privacy.”
This isn’t the first time DeMelo has needed medical assistance. The midfielder was substituted in a fixture against Bay FC on March 22 after a medical issue.
She was eventually stretchered off the field. The game has been rescheduled for Tuesday at Lumen Field, where it will be played behind closed doors
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