Timed perfectly with the excitement of the US Open, Tubi premiered its original documentary Naomi Osaka: The Second Set last night at The Roxy Cinema in New York. The evening featured an engaging opening panel with Naomi Osaka and director Kat Jayme, moderated by acclaimed journalist Gayle King, before guests were treated to an exclusive first look at the film.
On August 18th, Tubi hosted the official premiere screening of its newest documentary, Naomi Osaka: The Second Set, at The Roxy Cinema in NYC. The event brought together media, filmmakers, and fans for an intimate conversation followed by the highly anticipated film debut. Ayle King, no stranger to interviewing, asked very poignant and insightful questions that really brought depth to the conversation.
Launching August 24th exclusively on Tubi, the documentary offers an intimate portrait of Osaka’s return to professional tennis following the birth of her daughter, Shai. Framed as a personal love letter to her child, the film explores the emotional complexities and physical demands of navigating motherhood while reclaiming a place on the global sports stage.
NEW YORK – AUGUST 18: Gale King, Naomi Osaka, and Kathleen Jayme attend a screening of Tubi’s original documentary “Naomi Osaka: The Second Set” at the Roxy Cinema on August 18, 2025, in New York City. (Photo Efren Landaos/PictureGroup for Tubi)
What really stood out during both the documentary and the Q&A was Naomi’s deep love for tennis and her daughter, Shai. She has a strong foundation, bolstered by the unwavering support of her mother and her dedicated team. Though soft-spoken, every word she shares carries weight—reflecting a thoughtful approach shaped by a life lived under the intense scrutiny of the sports spotlight.
Directed by Kat Jayme (The Grizzlie Truth, I’m Just Here for the Riot, Finding Big Country), the documentary is produced by Hana Kuma—founded by Naomi Osaka and Stuart Duguid—and Nike. It is also a collaboration with Fulwell 73’s Uninterrupted, the athlete empowerment brand founded by LeBron James and Maverick Carter. James, Carter, Jamal Henderson, and Philip Byron serve as executive producers.
You could really tell that the director and Naomi had a great rapport, which played a significant role in bringing out Naomi’s personality in the film. Their comfortable and trusting dynamic allowed Naomi to deliver a more authentic and nuanced performance, making her character feel genuine and relatable.
NEW YORK – AUGUST 18: Samuel Harowitz, Ian Nelson, Naomi Osaka, and Cynthia Clevenger attend a screening of Tubi’s original documentary “Naomi Osaka: The Second Set” at the Roxy Cinema on August 18, 2025, in New York City. (Photo Efren Landaos/PictureGroup for Tubi)
A testament to strength, identity, and evolution, Naomi Osaka: The Second Set adds a powerful and personal chapter to the legacy of one of tennis’s most groundbreaking athletes. Naomi Osaka and Gael Monfils team up for the 2025 US Open mixed doubles, and it’s hard not to root for their victory.
