Georgia is celebrating a monumental moment in its lottery history, welcoming its largest jackpot winner ever. A single Mega Millions ticket, purchased at Publix #1816 located at 4000 N. Highway 29 in Newnan, matched all six numbers drawn on Friday, November 14, to secure an estimated jackpot worth $980 million. The lucky winner has the option of taking an estimated cash value of $452.2 million.

Georgia Lottery President and CEO Gretchen Corbin expressed her excitement, stating, “We are thrilled to congratulate the largest winner in our state’s history. With every Mega Millions ticket sold in Georgia supporting HOPE and Pre-K, Georgia’s students and families are also big winners. We appreciate our players and retailers for their support of our mission.” The winning numbers for the Friday, November 14 Mega Millions drawing were 1-8-11-12-57, with a Mega Ball of 7.

This historic win surpasses Georgia Lottery's previous record, which was set when a Powerball ticket sold in Buford for the October 23, 2024 drawing won a $478.2 million jackpot. That prize was shared by two individuals who opted for a cash option of $230.6 million. In addition to the jackpot winner, the retailer, Publix #1816, will receive a $50,000 incentive bonus for selling the winning ticket.

Mega Millions winners in Georgia have 180 days from the draw date to claim their prizes. Players are encouraged to check their tickets, as there are nine ways to win in the game. Mega Millions tickets cost $5 per play and include a multiplier. Tickets can be purchased at Georgia Lottery retailers statewide, or via the Georgia Lottery app or online at www.galottery.com for eligible Georgia residents.

Mega Millions drawings are held twice a week, on Tuesdays and Fridays, at 11 p.m. ET. A fundamental aspect of the Georgia Lottery is its commitment to education; all proceeds from games like Mega Millions are dedicated to specific educational programs within the state. Since its inception, the Georgia Lottery Corp. has contributed over $29.8 billion to education. These funds support crucial initiatives such as Georgia’s HOPE Scholarship Program, which has benefited more than 2.25 million students, and Georgia’s Pre-K Program, which has enabled over 2.2 million 4-year-olds to attend the voluntary statewide prekindergarten program. For further information, players can visit www.galottery.com and www.megamillions.com. The Georgia Lottery reminds all players to play responsibly, be informed, and remember that it’s all about fun.