Georgia Player Claims $980 Million Mega Millions Jackpot, Lottery Officials Confirm
A Mega Millions ticket purchased in the state of Georgia matched all six winning numbers on Friday, securing a prize of $980 million, the largest jackpot in the game’s history. The winning combination—numbers 1, 8, 11, 12 and 57 with the gold Mega Ball 7—was drawn during the regular Friday evening drawing. Lottery officials said the odds of hitting the jackpot were roughly one in 302 million, underscoring the rarity of the event.
The new record surpasses the previous Mega Millions high of $656 million set in 2012 and exceeds the $1.05 billion Powerball jackpot that was won earlier in the year, though the Mega Millions prize remains the largest single‑draw payout for that specific game. Analysts note that the size of the jackpot was driven by an extended roll‑over period, during which ticket sales surged nationwide as players chased the growing prize. In the days leading up to the draw, the Georgia lottery reported a noticeable uptick in ticket sales within the state.
Lottery authorities confirmed that the winning ticket will be subject to standard claim procedures, including verification of the ticket’s authenticity and the winner’s identity. While Georgia law allows lottery winners to remain anonymous, the winner may choose to claim the prize publicly or privately. Officials indicated that the prize can be taken as a lump‑sum cash option or as an annuity paid over 30 years, with the cash value estimated at roughly 60 % of the advertised amount after federal and state taxes are applied.
Industry experts expect the massive jackpot to boost overall lottery participation in upcoming draws, as high‑profile wins often generate renewed public interest. The Georgia lottery board also indicated that a portion of the proceeds will be allocated to state education and community programs, as is customary for lottery revenues. The winner’s identity and claim details are expected to be announced in the coming weeks, pending verification and the winner’s preferences regarding publicity.
