In a stunning turn of events, a single ticket sold in Ohio has won the estimated $112 million Mega Millions jackpot during the drawing held on Friday, April 18, 2025. This marks a significant milestone as it is the first jackpot won since the Mega Millions revamped its format earlier this month, raising ticket prices and promising bigger prizes.
The winning numbers drawn just after 11 p.m. ET were 5, 13, 15, 17, 28, with the Megaball being 1. For the lucky winner, there is also an option to take a lump-sum cash payment estimated at $49.3 million. The exact location where the winning ticket was sold has not yet been disclosed.
This victory is particularly noteworthy as it is the 21st time that a Mega Millions jackpot has been won in Ohio. The last jackpot was claimed on March 25, 2025, when a player from Illinois took home a staggering $349 million. The recent changes to the Mega Millions game format have sparked excitement among players, leading to increased ticket sales and larger jackpots.
As of April 8, 2025, the Mega Millions game underwent significant changes, including an increase in ticket prices from $2 to $5. This adjustment was made to enhance the prize structure and improve the odds of winning. One of the key features now included with every ticket is a built-in multiplier, which can increase non-jackpot prizes by as much as ten times. The odds of winning any prize have improved from 1 in 24 to 1 in 23, while the odds of winning the jackpot have changed from 1 in 302,575,350 to 1 in 290,472,336.
"We are thrilled to see the excitement generated by the new Mega Millions format," said a spokesperson for the lottery. "Our goal was to create more opportunities for players to win big and to make the game more engaging for everyone." The changes also include a new minimum jackpot reset of $50 million, which will take effect after the latest jackpot is claimed.
For those interested in playing Mega Millions, tickets can be purchased at various locations, including gas stations, convenience stores, and grocery stores. Additionally, players can buy tickets online through the Jackpocket app, which is the official digital lottery courier for the USA TODAY Network. The app allows users to select their lottery game and numbers, place orders, view tickets, and collect winnings, all from their mobile devices.
To play Mega Millions, participants must choose five numbers from a pool of 1 to 70 and one number from a separate pool for the Megaball, which now ranges from 1 to 24. Players who prefer not to select their numbers can opt for a "Quick Pick," where the numbers are randomly generated by a computer.
The excitement surrounding the Mega Millions is palpable, especially as players eagerly await the next drawing scheduled for Tuesday, April 22, 2025. With the jackpot reset to $50 million, many are hoping to replicate the recent success seen in Ohio.
As the lottery continues to draw interest, it’s essential for players to understand the odds and the potential prizes. While the jackpot remains the most coveted prize, the game offers various tiers of winnings, with the minimum prize now set at $10 for matching just one Megaball. The maximum prize for matching all five white balls can reach up to $10 million, depending on the multiplier drawn.
For those contemplating their chances, it’s worth noting that the odds of winning the jackpot are still daunting at 290 million to one. However, the thrill of playing and the possibility of a life-changing win keep millions of players engaged.
In conclusion, the recent Mega Millions drawing has not only changed the life of one lucky winner in Ohio but has also revitalized interest in the game with its new structure and prize opportunities. As players gear up for the next drawing, the anticipation builds for who might be the next big winner.
