Savannah DeMelo Bio
Savannah Marie DeMelo (born March 26, 1998) is an American professional soccer player who plays as a midfielder for Racing Louisville FC of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). She was the fourth pick in the 2022 NWSL Draft after playing collegiately for the University of Southern California. DeMelo debuted for the United States national team at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, marking a significant milestone in her career.
Early Life and Background
Savannah DeMelo was born in Bellflower, California. Growing up in a supportive environment, she developed a passion for soccer at a young age. Her early exposure to the sport laid the foundation for her future endeavors in athletics. DeMelo attended the University of Southern California, where she honed her skills and furthered her education while competing at a high level in collegiate soccer.
Path to Soccer
DeMelo played five years at the University of Southern California, making 75 appearances and tallying 17 goals and 28 assists for the Trojans. A regular starter throughout her college career, she earned three All-Pac-12 selections, including All-Freshman team honors in 2017. Despite facing setbacks, including a torn Achilles tendon that sidelined her during her junior season, DeMelo successfully returned to action as a senior, starting all 14 games and contributing to her team’s success in the NCAA Tournament.
Savannah DeMelo Career
Early Career (2022)
Savannah DeMelo was selected by Racing Louisville with the fourth pick in the 2022 NWSL Draft. She made her professional debut on March 25, 2022, playing 11 minutes off the bench against the Houston Dash. DeMelo started her first match on April 2, 2022, in a 3–0 victory against the Kansas City Current. Throughout the 2022 NWSL season, she started every match, scoring four goals and assisting two, while leading the league in scoring chances created and fouls won.
Breakthrough (2023)
In 2023, Savannah DeMelo continued to excel, achieving 12 goal involvements across all competitions, scoring five goals and assisting two in league play. Her performance earned her a spot on the 2023 NWSL Challenge Cup All-Tournament Team and recognition as the NWSL Player of the Month for May. DeMelo also made the league’s Team of the Month twice, showcasing her impact on the field.
Notable Works and Milestones
DeMelo’s signature moment came when she scored her first professional goal, a game-winning direct free kick against San Diego Wave FC on May 18, 2022, which was featured on ESPN’s SportsCenter Top 10. Her contributions to Racing Louisville and the national team have solidified her status as a rising star in women’s soccer.
Savannah DeMelo Award Nominations
Throughout her career, Savannah DeMelo has received recognition for her outstanding performances, including nominations for various awards in the National Women’s Soccer League.
Savannah DeMelo Awards Won
DeMelo has achieved notable accolades, including being named to the NWSL Challenge Cup All-Tournament Team and earning the NWSL Player of the Month for May 2023. These awards highlight her contributions and impact in the league.
Savannah DeMelo Family
Savannah DeMelo is engaged to Kyle Adams, a defender for Louisville City FC. The couple shares a supportive relationship as they both pursue their professional soccer careers.
Personal Life
DeMelo has been open about her health challenges, sharing that she was diagnosed with Graves’ disease and hyperthyroidism near the end of the 2024 NWSL season. Despite these challenges, she remains committed to her sport and continues to inspire others with her resilience.
