Florida Player Becomes Biggest Mega Millions Winner of 2026
A lottery player from Florida has taken their place among the 10 biggest Mega Millions winners of all time after banking a jackpot of $800 million in the latest draw on Tuesday night.
The winning numbers for July 28 were white balls 34, 48, 49, 59 and 70, plus the gold Mega Ball 12. More than 645,000 prizes were paid out in a draw that turned out to be very lucky for lots of ticket holders across the U.S.
Two players won the game’s second-tier prize after matching all five white balls without the Mega Ball. One of these participants, from New York, bagged $3 million thanks to having a 3X multiplier on their ticket. The other winner was from Illinois and grabbed $5 million via a 5X multiplier.
The jackpot had not previously been won since someone from Ohio pocketed $60 million on March 17. The only other win this year came a week before that, when a player from Illinois landed $533 million on March 10.
Tuesday’s win ranks as the largest of the year and the tenth highest in Mega Millions history. However, it is still only half the size of the record-setting $1.602 billion from August 2023 - a prize that was eventually claimed by Saltines Holdings, LLC of Florida.
What Next For The Winner?
The latest jackpot winner has 180 days to come forward and claim their money. They can take the jackpot as an annuity, or go for the one-time cash option of $344.2 million.
Winners in Florida are not allowed to stay anonymous, as certain information is regarded as a matter of public record. However, claiming through a legal entity such as a trust or limited liability company is permitted, so it may be that the winner collects the prize in this way to keep their name out of the media spotlight.
Once they eventually get their hands on their money, they can begin to enjoy life as a multimillionaire, whether that is buying the house of their dreams, a fleet of cars or travelling the world with no financial stress. Or it may simply be a case of early retirement and setting up investments that will help the family for generations to come.
Powerball Continues To Soar
While the Mega Millions jackpot will now start again from $50 million, Powerball has soared beyond $660 million following three months without a winner.
Keep up to date with the winning numbers for both giant multi-state lotteries on Powerball-MegaMillions.com, and make sure to pick up tickets for the next draw. You can play at authorized retailers in participating states and jurisdictions, or choose numbers online.
Published: Wednesday, July 29, 2026