Savannah DeMelo: What to know after NWSL collapse
Racing Louisville FC’s Savannah DeMelo. Image Credit: Soobum Im/NWSL/Getty Images
The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) was rocked on September 14, 2025, when Savannah DeMelo, midfielder for Racing Louisville FC and U.S. women’s national team standout, collapsed during a match against the Seattle Reign at Lumen Field. The frightening scene forced officials to abandon the game and shift attention to DeMelo’s immediate health and safety.
Savannah DeMelo’s Collapse During the Match
DeMelo, 27, sat down in the 47th minute before falling backward, prompting urgent intervention from medical staff. Both teams quickly gathered around as she received treatment on the field.
Broadcasters later confirmed she was transported by ambulance to a local hospital. Racing Louisville announced that DeMelo was “stable and alert” following the incident. The game, scoreless at the time, will be rescheduled and resume from the minute it was abandoned.
The NWSL released a statement reaffirming its commitment to player safety:
“Our first priority is Savannah’s health and safety. We remain in close communication with Racing Louisville and Seattle Reign’s medical teams.”
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DeMelo’s Medical History: Graves’ Disease Diagnosis
Sunday’s collapse comes months after DeMelo revealed she had been diagnosed with Graves’ disease and hyperthyroidism in late 2024. She first experienced symptoms in a March 22 match against Bay FC, where she reported chest tightness and dizziness before being stretchered off.
In May, DeMelo told ESPN she often felt her heart racing uncontrollably, making 90 minutes of play nearly impossible. She was prescribed medication to manage her heart rate and thyroid activity, though her March incident was later linked to medication imbalances.
Graves’ disease, an autoimmune condition, can cause rapid heart rate, fatigue, and weight changes, complicating the demands of professional soccer.
Who Is Savannah DeMelo?
DeMelo has built a reputation as one of the brightest talents in U.S. soccer, drafted No. 4 overall in 2022 by Racing Louisville, she quickly became the team’s creative engine. She leads the club in goals (17) and assists (8), critical in their push for a first-ever playoff berth.
Internationally, she made headlines in 2023 by joining the USWNT World Cup roster despite having no prior senior caps, one of only three players to achieve that feat. Renowned for her ability to unlock midfields, draw fouls, and dictate tempo, she has become indispensable for club and country.
Wider Concerns About Player Safety in the NWSL
DeMelo’s collapse also underscores growing scrutiny over player welfare in the league. In May, Angel City FC defender Savy King suffered a heart-related medical emergency during a match, later undergoing surgery.
On August 16, controversy erupted when a match between Kansas City Current and Orlando Pride continued after a 3.5-hour weather delay in extreme heat. The NWSL’s 2025 competition rules outline that games must be postponed in cases of serious medical emergencies, as seen Sunday.
What Happens Next?
DeMelo will remain under medical evaluation, with Racing Louisville set to provide further updates. Also, the abandoned match will be rescheduled by the NWSL.
Her recovery timeline could affect both Racing Louisville’s playoff hopes and her availability for the U.S. Women’s National Team. For now, teammates, fans, and the soccer community are united in support as DeMelo continues her fight both on and off the field.