For more than 20 years, the Liverpool International Tennis Tournament has brought world-class grass court tennis to the city.
This summer, Napthens is proud to support the event as Presenting Partner, ahead of its return to Liverpool Cricket & Sports Club from 18–20 June.
The partnership comes at a time of strong growth for the firm, with its Liverpool office now the fastest-growing across the business. As Head of Liverpool Office, Kieran Donovan puts it, “it seemed like the stars were aligning.”
A natural fit
For Kieran, the connection with the tournament runs deep.
“I’ve been going on and off for years, since it was at Calderstones,” he says. “It’s always been a cracking event – from when people like Martina Hingis and Emma Raducanu were there to its move to Liverpool Cricket Club.”
Napthens’ long-term commitment to the city made the partnership feel like a natural next step.
“We’re fully committed to Liverpool,” Kieran explains. “Two years ago, we signed a 10-year lease at The Plaza with Bruntwood.”
Bringing that commitment together with the tournament’s own long-term investment in the city created a clear alignment.
“It felt like the right moment for both of us,” he adds.
For Napthens, the appeal goes far beyond brand visibility.
“It ticks so many boxes – from community engagement and supporting young people to championing local business and raising the city’s profile,” Kieran says.
“All of that reflects what we’re trying to achieve as a firm in the communities we serve.”
“The business side is underrated”
Kieran believes one of the tournament’s strongest assets is often overlooked.
“The business networking at Liverpool Tennis is really underrated,” he says.
“It brings the right people together in a relaxed setting where you can still have meaningful conversations. That balance is really valuable.”
The informal atmosphere also creates opportunities to showcase the city in a positive light.
“It gives people a different perspective – whether that’s their first time at the event or their first time in that part of Liverpool.”
That mix of quality and accessibility was a key factor for Napthens.
“It’s high profile and premium, but still approachable,” says Kieran. “That reflects who we are as a business – professional, but down-to-earth, and connected to the communities around us.”
More than hospitality
Alongside the commercial and networking opportunities, the tournament’s outreach work is a major draw.
“I’ve always admired the organisations supporting the outreach programme,” Kieran says. “It’s about introducing young people to a sport that isn’t always easy to access.”
That personal accessibility resonates strongly.
“I wouldn’t have got into law without someone giving me an opportunity,” he reflects. “It’s about opening doors and helping people reach their potential.”
For Napthens, that sense of impact is central to the partnership.
“We’re really excited to see how introducing more young people to tennis can make a difference.”
While the partnership brings clear business benefits, relationships remain at its core.
“We take our work seriously, but we don’t take ourselves too seriously,” Kieran adds. “We value connection, we enjoy what we do, and ultimately, we’re a business built on relationships.”
“For us, it’s about creating something with lasting impact.”
