Midfielder for US Women’s National Team Stable After Collapse During Game

Savannah DeMelo, 27, who plays for Racing Louisville FC, had the medical emergency in the first half of a match against Seattle Reign FC.

Savannah DeMelo of the U.S. Women's National Team dribbles the ball against Wales at PayPal Park in San Jose, Calif., on July 9, 2023. Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images

Racing Louisville FC midfielder Savannah DeMelo is in stable condition after collapsing on field during a match against Seattle Reign FC over the weekend.

DeMelo, 27, suffered the medical emergency in first-half stoppage time while playing in the U.S. National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) at Lumen Field in Seattle on Sept. 14.

“Savannah is stable and alert and getting the medical attention she needs,” the NWSL wrote on X. “Our first priority is her health and safety. We are in close communication with Racing Louisville’s medical team.”

The game was abandoned after DeMelo was seen in distress and being attended to by a teammate while taking a seat on the pitch, according to Reuters.

A referee alerted trainers to come and assess her condition, and seconds later, DeMelo collapsed backwards with teammates attempting to keep her upright.

“Savannah received immediate on-field care from medical personnel and was transported to a local hospital for further evaluation,” the NWSL statement said.

“We recognize the concern this incident may cause, particularly in light of recent conversations around player safety. The NWSL remains committed to ensuring that the highest standards of medical care and emergency response are in place at every match.”

The remainder of the game was ultimately suspended and will be rescheduled with further updates to be provided.

While the exact cause of the incident remains unknown, the California native disclosed that she was diagnosed with Graves’ disease and hyperthyroidism last year, per ESPN.

Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid gland, which can lead to hyperthyroidism or a hormonal deficiency in the thyroid. Hyperthyroidism can have an impact on breathing, heart rate, weight, digestion, and even mood.

DeMelo, who has played internationally for the United States several times, came forward with her diagnosis in May after being withdrawn from the first half of a game against Bay FC due to chest tightness and dizziness.

“Playing a 90-minute game felt unbearable,” DeMelo told ESPN.

“I would get to maybe the 25th minute, and I felt like my heart was just like beating so fast, like out of my chest. I felt so out of breath, so out of shape. I didn’t really know what was going on.”

DeMelo joined Racing Louisville in 2022, after spending her entire club career with Louisville, and the following year earned a starting role on the U.S. Women’s National Team for the FIFA Women’s World Cup.