The Biggest Lottery Wins in United States History

A Georgia player won the $980 million Mega Millions jackpot in 2025 with a ticket bought at a Publix in Newnan, about 40 miles southwest of Atlanta. The Quik Pik ticket matched all six numbers in the November 14 drawing, creating the largest lottery prize in Georgia state history.

Because Georgia law can allow big winners to stay private, the public may never learn the person’s name or backstory. The winner had the choice between the full 30-year annuity and a cash option of about $452.2 million before taxes. Even the cash choice could buy mansions, businesses, private travel, and generational security.