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Liverpool’s sporting landscape is set to expand with the development of a new padel tennis complex at the Liverpool Tennis Centre in Wavertree, spearheaded by Marc Klopp, son of the legendary Jurgen Klopp.

While little is known about Jurgen Klopp’s direct financial involvement, the project is formally led by Marc’s company, Padel FC, which has secured a 25-year lease with Liverpool City Council to transform disused tennis courts into a state-of-the-art padel facility.

The venture, reported by North West Place, involves a £500,000 investment (approximately $665,000) to construct six indoor and three outdoor padel courts, alongside amenities such as restrooms and a food truck.

Padel, a hybrid of tennis and squash, has surged in popularity across Europe, and Jürgen Klopp’s well-documented passion for the sport has long been a talking point

“Padel is, besides football, the best game I’ve ever played,” Klopp said of the sport.

“I’ve only known it in the last five years or so but since then I’m really addicted to it?

It’s really fun to play.”

During his tenure as Liverpool manager, Klopp installed padel courts at the club’s Melwood training ground and frequently played with staff and players.

Liverpool City Council identified the site at Liverpool Tennis Centre as ideal for redevelopment and began seeking proposals in July 2023.

Padel FC, co-founded by Marc Klopp and former Bristol City footballer Bradley Orr, emerged as the preferred bidder.

The council’s evaluation panel scored Padel FC higher for its £500,000 upfront investment and commitment to social value, including plans for community outreach programs79.

The lease agreement stipulates an initial annual rent of £70,000, rising to £140,000 after the first year, with reviews every five years.

Over the 25-year term, the council expects to receive over £500,000 in total rent, alongside revitalizing an underutilized area.

Construction will involve erecting a dome-shaped steel structure with plastic sheeting to cover the courts, ensuring year-round playability.

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