The numbers have been drawn for the colossal Mega Millions jackpot, which had climbed to an estimated $980 million and captivated hopeful players across the United States.
The Winning Combination
The drawing took place on Friday night, with the selected numbers being 1, 8, 11, 12, and 57. The all-important gold Mega Ball was 7. Lottery officials have not yet announced if any single ticket managed to match all six numbers and overcome the game's staggering odds of 1 in 290.5 million.
This drawing marked the 40th consecutive draw without a jackpot winner, setting a new game record since the last top prize was claimed on June 27. There have been four Mega Millions jackpot wins earlier in the year, but the prize has been eluding players for months.
Prize Details and Previous Wins
A potential winner faces a life-altering choice: they can opt for the annuity, paid out over time, or a one-time, lump-sum cash payment of $452.2 million before taxes are applied. Should multiple players hold the winning ticket, the enormous prize will be shared equally amongst them.
While this jackpot is monumental, it does not break into the top 10 largest in US history. However, it would rank as the eighth-largest jackpot since the Mega Millions game began in 2002. For context, a $1.8 billion Powerball jackpot was won by two players in Missouri and Texas just this past September.
More Than Just the Jackpot
Even for those who don't hit the main prize, Mega Millions offers numerous other winning opportunities. The odds of winning any prize are a much more favourable 1 in 23. From the previous drawing on November 11, there were over 800,000 winners of non-jackpot prizes.
Tickets for the game cost $5 each and are available in 45 states, as well as Washington, D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Importantly, half of the proceeds from each ticket sale remain within the local jurisdiction where it was purchased. How these profits are spent is determined by law and managed by local lottery agencies.
The next Mega Millions drawing is scheduled for Tuesday.
While the dream of a jackpot win is enticing, it is crucial to remember that gambling can become addictive. The National Council on Problem Gambling defines problem gambling as behaviour that damages a person or their family, often disrupting daily life and career. It is a recognised mental health diagnosis. The council emphasises that anyone who gambles could be at risk. For those seeking help, the National Problem Gambling Helpline is 1-800-522-4700, which connects individuals to local support resources.
