Savannah DeMelo files lawsuit against medical partner after on-field cardiac arrest
Racing Louisville midfielder Savannah DeMelo has initiated a lawsuit against University of Louisville Health, the team's medical partner, regarding its management of a heart condition that resulted in her 2025 on-field collapse. The 28-year-old experienced cardiac arrest during a September 14 match in Seattle, attributed to an undiagnosed arrhythmia, according to DeMelo's legal complaint.
The lawsuit, filed on Tuesday, alleges that UofL Health and two named physicians failed to provide prudent medical care, with their negligence substantially contributing to her injuries, including the cardiac arrest details of the complaint. One of the physicians named in the suit serves as Racing's chief medical officer chief medical officer.
Racing Louisville's medical partner change and DeMelo's return
Sources familiar with the situation indicate that Racing Louisville does not intend to retain UofL Health as its medical partner beyond the current season, with the club actively seeking a new partner for the 2027 season club's future plans. Neither of the physicians named in the lawsuit is a direct employee of Racing Louisville, operating instead through the agreement with UofL Health.
DeMelo, who had not played for club or country since last fall DeMelo's absence, is nearing a return to competitive play. She has resumed full training with her teammates this week. There is a potential timeline for her involvement as early as the September 25 match, when Louisville is scheduled to host the San Diego Wave.
Contract agreement and NWSL career
Despite her contract nearing its expiration, DeMelo has reached a verbal agreement with Racing Louisville to remain with the club, pending league approval. An official announcement could occur as soon as next week new contract agreement.
DeMelo has played her entire professional career with Louisville, having been selected fourth overall in the 2022 NWSL draft. Her impactful play in midfield and proficiency in set-piece situations led to her selection for the United States Women's National Team roster at the 2023 Women's World Cup. She became the third player in USWNT history to earn a World Cup squad spot while with Racing Louisville.
Reporting: Just Women's Sports, The Guardian