A Georgia resident defied 1 in 290.5 million odds to win the $980 million Mega Millions jackpot on Friday. The winner can choose a $452.2 million cash payout before taxes.
A Mega Millions player in Georgia secured the $980 million jackpot on Friday, matching all six numbers (1, 8, 11, 12, 57, and gold Mega Ball 7) against astronomical odds of 1 in 290.5 million. The winner has the option of an annuity or a one-time cash payment of $452.2 million before taxes. This win marked the 40th drawing since the last jackpot on June 27, setting a new game record. While not among the top 10 U.S. lottery jackpots, it is the eighth-largest in Mega Millions history. The next drawing is on Tuesday. Mega Millions also offers smaller prizes, with odds of 1 in 23 for any prize, and over 800,000 non-jackpot winners in the Nov. 11 drawing. Tickets cost $5 and are sold in 45 states, D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands, with half the proceeds staying in the jurisdiction of sale. The article also includes a warning about gambling addiction, providing the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700.
