Seattle Reign vs. Racing Louisville Match Abandoned After Savannah DeMelo Collapse
Sunday's NWSL match between the Seattle Reign and Racing Louisville at Lumen Field was abandoned after Louisville midfielder Savannah DeMelo collapsed on the field. DeMelo is reported to be "stable and alert" and was transported to a local hospital for further evaluation.
DeMelo's Medical Emergency Halts Play
Near the end of the first half, with the score tied 0-0, Savannah DeMelo sat down on the field and appeared unresponsive. Medical personnel quickly rushed to her aid. Referees opted to end the first half early, and the game was subsequently abandoned. The match will be resumed at a later date from the point of interruption.
Several of DeMelo's teammates were visibly emotional, including Racing Louisville head coach Bev Yanez. A statement released by Racing Louisville confirmed that DeMelo was "stable and alert" following the medical emergency and had been taken to a hospital for further assessment.
The Seattle Reign also released a statement expressing their support, saying they "stand side by side with Louisville during this time."
DeMelo's Health History
This incident follows a previous episode in March when DeMelo was forced to leave a match against Bay FC due to feeling lightheaded. In May, she revealed she had been diagnosed with Graves' disease and hyperthyroidism last fall.
Hyperthyroidism can cause symptoms such as an increased or irregular heartbeat, tiredness, muscle weakness, and weight loss. Graves' disease is an autoimmune disorder that can lead to hyperthyroidism.
Youth Match Day Details and Game Context
The match was designated as a Youth Match, with family-friendly activities planned around the stadium. Despite the unfortunate circumstances, the Seattle Reign were hosting a range of events, including a special opportunity for children aged 5-12 to score a goal on the pitch after the game. The Mariners also had a home game earlier in the day, potentially impacting traffic around the stadium.
Prior to the incident, the game was set to be a crucial contest for both teams, who are vying for playoff positioning. The Reign have a slight advantage in regular-season matches against Louisville, but the teams have frequently ended in draws.
Team Updates and Injuries
Before the match, Veronica Latsko announced her retirement and was honored at the game. Shae Holmes was available for selection after being removed from the injury report.
| Team | Injuries, Absences, Suspensions |
|---|---|
| Seattle Reign | OUT: Lynn Biyendolo (knee), Ryanne Brown (SEI – knee), Veronica Latsko (SEI – lower leg), Cassie Miller (D45 – leg) |
| Racing Louisville | OUT: Jordan Baggett (illness), Uchenna Kanu (knee), Katie Lund (SEI – hip), Madalyn Pokorny (SEI – hip), Olivia Sekany (SEI – knee), Kirsten Wright (SEI – knee). QUESTIONABLE: Kayla Fischer (back), Ella Hase (ankle), Lauren Milliet (shoulder) |
