A “Powerball” ticket.Image: iStock Unreleased
December 25, 2025, 7:32 p.mDecember 25, 2025, 7:32 p.m
In the USA, a lottery player received a very special Christmas present: A person from the US state of Arkansas won a lottery jackpot worth around 1.8 billion dollars (around 1.5 billion euros) on Christmas Eve – according to the operators of the “Powerball” lottery, the second highest in US history.
The ticket with the correct five numbers 4, 25, 31, 52, 59 and the additional number 19 won. “This is truly an extraordinary win that changes lives,” “Powerball” boss Matt Strawn was quoted as saying on the lottery’s website.
Chances of winning the main prize are negligible
The largest jackpot in US history was won in California in November 2022: At that time, there was $2.04 billion to be won. “Powerball” winners can choose whether they receive the full amount paid out in installments over 30 years or receive a one-time payment minus a hefty discount – in this case $834.9 million.
Participation in the “Powerball” lottery is possible in 45 states as well as in the capital Washington, the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. The game is played on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays and a ticket costs two dollars. According to the lottery, the chances of winning the main prize are 1 in 292.2 million. Gambling can be addictive. (sda/dpa)