King Willem-Alexander visited Cruyff Court Ryan Gravenberch in Anfield, Liverpool, to learn more about the role of the Cruyff Court in the local community.
During the visit, the King spoke with one of the Cruyff Foundation Coaches and watched a walking football session, seeing how sport brings people together across different generations.
Also present were Julen Cruyff and former Liverpool goalkeeper and Cruyff Foundation ambassador Sander Westerveld, alongside other guests.
Julen Cruyff said: “I’m incredibly proud to see my grandfather’s legacy continue to grow in the UK, with almost 50 Cruyff Courts now creating opportunities for children. This success is thanks to the passion and dedication of local communities. Together, they bring the Cruyff philosophy to life and make a real difference in children’s lives.”
A place for sport and community
Originally opened in 2016 as Cruyff Court Anfield, the court has been an important place for youngsters in the neighbourhood for almost ten years. Located close to Liverpool FC's stadium, it offers children and youngsters a place to play sports. The court sees around eight hours of play each day and welcomes at least 250 visitors each week.
The court was renewed in 2025 and renamed Cruyff Court Ryan Gravenberch. The renewed facility includes a modern artificial turf pitch, new fencing and goals.
The Cruyff Foundation works together with the Liverpool FC Foundation and Anfield Sports and Community Centre to keep the court active and accessible to the local community. Alongside everyday play, the partners organise six youth tournaments, 40 girls’ sessions, 40 disability sessions and 80 walking football sessions, creating opportunities for people of different ages and abilities to get active and connect through sport.
All projects have been made possible thanks to funds raised by players of the Postcode Lottery, who have now contributed more than £4 million to the Cruyff Foundation’s work in the UK.