Georgia’s $980 Million Mega Millions Winner Faces a Life certainty

In an unprecedented lottery event, a single ticket sold in Georgia has claimed the colossal $980 million Mega Millions jackpot, marking the largest lottery prize in the state’s history and the eighth largest Mega Millions jackpot ever awarded.

The winning numbers—1, 8, 11, 12, 57, and Mega Ball 7—matched perfectly in Friday night’s drawing, ending a 40-drawing streak without a jackpot winner and setting a new record for the Mega Millions game. The victorious ticket was purchased at Publix #1816 in Newnan, Georgia.

The winner now faces a life-changing choice between a lump-sum cash payout, estimated at $452.2 million before taxes, or an annuity paid out over several years totaling the full jackpot amount. Meanwhile, the retailer who sold the ticket will receive a $50,000 bonus incentive.

“This is a monumental win not only for the lucky ticket holder but for the entire state,” said officials from the Georgia Lottery. “Half of the proceeds raised by lottery ticket sales stay in Georgia to fund important programs like HOPE scholarships and Pre-K education.”

The Mega Millions jackpot is supported by sales in 45 states, Washington, D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Friday’s drawing also generated over 1 million winners of smaller prizes across the country.

This historic jackpot win brings a wave of excitement and hope across Georgia and beyond, as lottery players reflect on the incredible odds and tremendous fortune now resting in the hands of one fortunate individual.