Two Powerball ticket holders, one from Missouri and one from Texas, won the staggering $1.787 billion jackpot in yesterday’s drawing—the second-largest prize in Powerball history.
The Winning Moment
The draw, held in America on Saturday, September 6, ended a historic three-month streak without a jackpot winner and electrified lottery fans nationwide. The winning numbers were 11, 23, 44, 61, 62, with the red Powerball number 17. Each lucky winner now faces a life-changing decision: accept the full annuity—payments totaling nearly $893.5 million over 30 years—or the lump sum cash option of approximately $410.3 million each before taxes. This epic win instantly took its place behind only the $2.04 billion won in California in 2022 in the Powerball record books.
Stories Behind the Tickets
Early reports reveal the Texas ticket was sold at a gas station in Fredericksburg, while the Missouri winner purchased their ticket in-state, though both individuals remain anonymous for now. Across the country, millions watched the results unfold, with smaller wins accompanying the main event: 18 tickets won $1 million for matching five white balls, and two more won $2 million with Match 5 + Power Play.
The Odds and the Impact
The odds of winning the American Powerball jackpot are a staggering 1 in 292.2 million, making the achievement truly extraordinary. With Powerball tickets available for $2 in most states, hopeful players contributed massively to educational and community funds across the US as the prize pool ballooned. The winners now have up to a year to claim their prizes, depending on state regulations.
Financial Realities
Despite the headline amount, taxes will claim a significant portion of each winner’s windfall—federal taxes take up to 37%, and state taxes may apply depending on location. Still, the cash payout offers transformative potential: new homes, travel, philanthropy, and early retirement on a scale reserved for the world’s richest.