Savannah DeMelo: Collapse During NWSL Match and Health Update

On September 14, 2025, Racing Louisville midfielder Savannah DeMelo collapsed during a National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) match against Seattle Reign. The incident occurred late in the first half at Lumen Field in Seattle, leading to the immediate abandonment of the game.

Incident Overview

During stoppage time in the first half, DeMelo was seen sitting on the field before collapsing. Teammates and medical staff rushed to her aid, and paramedics were quickly signaled onto the pitch. The match was halted, and DeMelo was transported to a local hospital. Racing Louisville confirmed that she was “stable and alert” following the incident.

Health Background

DeMelo has been open about her health struggles, revealing in May 2025 that she has been managing Graves’ disease and hyperthyroidism. These conditions can cause symptoms such as chest tightness, rapid heartbeat, and difficulty breathing. Earlier in the season, she experienced dizziness and chest tightness during a match against Bay FC, leading to her being stretchered off the field.

NWSL’s Response

The NWSL prioritized player safety by halting the match immediately. The league emphasized its commitment to ensuring the highest standards of medical care and emergency response at every match. The game between Racing Louisville and Seattle Reign was abandoned and will be rescheduled at a later date.

Savannah DeMelo’s Career

Born on March 26, 1998, in Bellflower, California, DeMelo began her collegiate career at the University of Southern California (USC), where she made 75 appearances and scored 17 goals. She was selected by Racing Louisville as the fourth pick in the 2022 NWSL Draft. Since joining the team, she has become a key player, earning 14 goals in 61 appearances. DeMelo has also represented the U.S. women’s national team, including participation in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

FAQs

Q: What caused Savannah DeMelo’s collapse during the NWSL match?
A: The exact cause of DeMelo’s collapse is not confirmed. She has previously experienced health issues related to Graves’ disease and hyperthyroidism, which may have contributed to the incident.

Q: Was the NWSL match between Racing Louisville and Seattle Reign resumed?
A: No, the match was abandoned due to DeMelo’s medical emergency. It will be rescheduled at a later date.

Q: What are Graves’ disease and hyperthyroidism?
A: Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disorder that causes hyperthyroidism, leading to symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, weight loss, and fatigue. Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone.

Q: How is Savannah DeMelo doing now?
A: Racing Louisville reported that DeMelo is “stable and alert” following the incident and was transported to a local hospital for further evaluation.

Q: Has DeMelo experienced similar health issues before?
A: Yes, earlier in the season, DeMelo experienced dizziness and chest tightness during a match against Bay FC, leading to her being stretchered off the field.

Q: What is the status of the NWSL match?
A: The match between Racing Louisville and Seattle Reign was abandoned and will be rescheduled at a later date. Savannah DeMelo collapse.

Q: What is Savannah DeMelo’s background?
A: DeMelo is a midfielder for Racing Louisville and has represented the U.S. women’s national team. She was selected by Racing Louisville as the fourth pick in the 2022 NWSL Draft and has earned 14 goals in 61 appearances.

Q: How did the NWSL respond to the incident?
A: The NWSL halted the match immediately and emphasized its commitment to ensuring the highest standards of medical care and emergency response at every match.

Q: Where can I watch the collapse incident?
A: You can watch the incident in the video below:

For more updates on Savannah DeMelo’s condition and the rescheduled match, stay tuned to official Racing Louisville and NWSL communications.