A single Powerball ticket sold in Arkansas matched all six numbers in Wednesday’s drawing, resulting in a jackpot of $1.817 billion. This marks the end of a 46-drawing streak without a grand prize winner and delivers a life-altering sum to one lucky player.
Jackpot Reaches Historic Levels
The final ticket sales elevated the jackpot to the second-largest in US history, and the largest Powerball prize offered in 2025, according to Powerball.com. The winner has the option of receiving the full $1.817 billion or a lump sum payment of $834.9 million.
Matt Strawn, Powerball Product Group chair and Iowa Lottery CEO, called the win “truly an extraordinary, life-changing prize.” He also noted that every ticket purchased contributes to public programs and services nationwide.
Recent Jackpot History
The previous jackpot win occurred on September 6th, when players in Missouri and Texas split a $1.787 billion prize. The extended period without a winner allowed the jackpot to grow significantly with each successive drawing.
The game is available in 45 states, Washington DC, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands, with each ticket costing $2. The long odds didn’t deter some, like Indianapolis glass artist Chris Winters, who purchased a ticket “kind of impulsively” due to the high prize amount.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long had it been since the last Powerball jackpot win?
It had been 46 consecutive drawings since the last jackpot was won.
What are the odds of winning the Powerball jackpot?
The odds of winning the Powerball jackpot are 1 in 292.2 million.
Has a Powerball jackpot ever been won on Christmas Day?
Yes, the sweepstakes has been won on Christmas Day four times, most recently in 2013.
The winner in Arkansas now faces a significant decision regarding how to claim their prize, and analysts expect a period of heightened interest in future Powerball drawings as players hope to replicate this extraordinary outcome.
