Racing Louisville’s Savannah DeMelo remains in hospital after collapsing mid-match at Seattle Reign.
The game was abandoned following the incident on Sunday, and will resume on Tuesday evening behind closed doors at Lumen Field in Seattle, although it will be broadcast live on television.
DeMelo collapsed during additional time at the end of the first half, with the scoreline goalless.
Racing Louisville issued a statement on DeMelo’s behalf, which read: “I’m lucky to have my family with me while I’m waiting for test results to come back.
“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 support means a great deal to all of us”
Racing Louisville head coach Bev Yanez said in the same statement: “We are so grateful for the outpouring of support for Savannah. This has been an incredibly difficult time for our players and staff, who all care deeply for her, and it’s meaningful to know the entire NWSL community is behind Sav as she recovers.
“I’m especially thankful to the medical personnel who acted quickly to ensure her safety on Sunday night, as well as to the Seattle Reign and the NWSL for their support.”
The club’s general manager Caitlyn Flores Milby thanked the medical staff from both clubs who treated DeMelo on the pitch before her transfer to hospital, and to the league for suspending the game, as well as those who had been in touch with messages.
“The support means a great deal to all of us,” she said. “We are here for Savannah and her family during this time.”
“Postponing the match was the right decision”
The NWSL Players’ Association had said earlier on Monday that they were pleased the match had been abandoned. In a statement released on their social media, they said: “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.”
DeMelo, aged 27, joined Racing Louisville in 2022 after a college career with the University of Southern California. She was part of the USA squad for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
