Savy King to make comeback at Angel City post-heart scare

Angel City FC defender Savy King is gearing up for a comeback after being removed from the National Women's Soccer League's season-ending injury list. King had been sidelined since experiencing a cardiac event during a match in May 2025, which led to open-heart surgery due to a rare congenital heart condition. Now, she is focused on returning to the pitch for the upcoming 2026 NWSL season. "I've been working tirelessly towards getting back to playing. I'm thrilled to be back and ready to step onto the field again," King shared with ESPN, emphasizing the significance of her return not just for herself, but for everyone who has faced significant challenges, especially related to cardiac issues. King is set to make her comeback during Angel City's preseason exhibition games at the Coachella Valley Invitational, with the regular season kicking off on March 15 at BMO Stadium. Determined to be fully prepared for the season opener, King expressed her eagerness and readiness to return, highlighting the mental focus she has dedicated to complement her physical readiness. After completing cardiac rehab and gradually returning to training with Angel City, King reflected on the emotional milestone of reuniting with her teammates at the training facility. She cherished the moment, underscoring the feeling of being back where she belonged, despite the initial limitations post-rehab, as it marked a significant step in her recovery journey. In addition to her remarkable return to the field, King has launched the Savy King of Hearts nonprofit, aiming to raise CPR awareness, offer preventive screenings, and advocate for heart health. Her latest initiative involves providing free CPR training to all 16 NWSL teams, in collaboration with the NWSL and the American Heart Association, elevating the league's preparedness in cardiac emergencies. Having initially been drafted by Bay FC and later traded to Angel City, where she signed a contract extension, King had already made her mark in the NWSL before her health setback. Now, with her inspiring resilience and commitment to heart health advocacy, King is not only preparing for a triumphant return to the game she loves but also leading impactful initiatives that transcend sports and benefit the entire league.