A Mega Millions player in Georgia won the staggering $980 million jackpot on Friday, overcoming astronomical odds of 1 in 290.5 million. The winner has the option to take a cash payout of $452.2 million before taxes.
A Georgia resident secured the $980 million Mega Millions jackpot on Friday, matching the winning numbers 1, 8, 11, 12, 57, and gold Mega Ball 7. This incredible win beat odds of 1 in 290.5 million. The lucky individual can opt for an annuity or a one-time lump-sum payment of $452.2 million before taxes. This jackpot was the result of 40 consecutive drawings without a winner, a new game record since the last win on June 27. Although not among the top 10 U.S. lottery jackpots, it ranks as the eighth-largest Mega Millions prize since the game's inception in 2002. Beyond the grand prize, Mega Millions offers lesser prizes, with overall odds of winning any prize at 1 in 23; the Nov. 11 drawing saw over 800,000 non-jackpot winners. Tickets are $5 each, sold in 45 states, Washington D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands, with half the proceeds remaining in the selling jurisdiction. The article also highlights resources for problem gambling, defining it as 'gambling behavior that is damaging to a person or their family' and providing the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700.
