A single lottery ticket sold at a Georgia Publix has shattered state records, claiming a massive $980 million Mega Millions jackpot.
Story Highlights
- Georgia resident wins record-breaking $980 million Mega Millions jackpot, the largest in state history
- Winning ticket purchased at Publix #1816 in Newnan on November 14, 2025
- Winner has 180 days to claim prize, choosing between $452.2 million lump sum or annuity payments
- Jackpot victory generates $50,000 bonus for retailer and millions more for Georgia education programs
Historic Jackpot Victory Breaks Georgia Records
The winning ticket matched all six numbers in Thursday night’s drawing: 1-8-11-12-57 with Mega Ball 7. This astronomical win dwarfs Georgia’s previous lottery record of $478.2 million from a Powerball jackpot won in Buford just over a year ago. The lucky ticket holder purchased their life-changing entry at Publix #1816 located in Newnan, approximately 40 miles southwest of Atlanta.
Single ticket sold in Georgia captures $980M Mega Millions jackpot https://t.co/Ewyl6KraAM
— America's Pick (@nims213) November 15, 2025
Winner Faces Major Financial Decision
Georgia Lottery officials confirm the anonymous winner has 180 days from the drawing date to claim their prize. The winner must choose between receiving the full $980 million spread across 30 annual payments or accepting a reduced lump sum of approximately $452.2 million before taxes. Georgia Lottery President Gretchen Corbin expressed excitement about congratulating “the largest winner in our state’s history” while emphasizing the positive impact on education funding.
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Education Programs Receive Substantial Boost
This massive jackpot reinforces the Georgia Lottery’s core mission of supporting state education initiatives. Since its establishment in 1992, the Georgia Lottery has returned over $29.8 billion to education programs, primarily funding the popular HOPE Scholarship and Pre-K programs. The substantial ticket sales leading up to this record win generate millions in additional revenue for these critical educational resources that benefit Georgia families.
Retailer Celebrates Windfall Bonus
Publix #1816 in Newnan receives a $50,000 incentive bonus for selling the winning ticket, providing a significant boost to the local business. This retailer bonus system encourages lottery participation while rewarding the stores that serve as distribution points throughout Georgia. The community celebration surrounding this win demonstrates how major lottery victories can energize local economies and create positive publicity for participating retailers.
Sources:
$980M Mega Millions Jackpot Won in Newnan – Largest Lottery Winner in Georgia History
Mega Millions Single Ticket Holder Jackpot Georgia $980 Million
Mega Millions Jackpot Winning Numbers November 14
