A single lottery ticket sold in Southern California has earned one punter the record-breaking US$2.04 billion (AU$3.14 billion) Powerball jackpot.
On most occasions, a winning ticket entails a life-changing sum. But after more than three months without anyone claiming the top prize, and in defiance of the 1 in 292.2 million odds, whoever’s cashing this in what is currently history’s biggest top prize has effectively secured generational wealth.
The magic numbers – white balls 10, 33, 41, 47, 56, and red Powerball 10 – were drawn hours after it was scheduled due to issues surrounding the processing of sales data. While officials acknowledged it was an unprecedented delay for such a high-profile event, they also noted it was for good reason.
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“The delay was necessary to confirm the Powerball drawing could be conducted securely and accurately,” said the Minnesota Lottery.
“At no time was the integrity of the process compromised.”
Drew Svitko, Chairman of the Powerball Product Group & Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Lottery, added: “Protecting the integrity of the draw is of utmost importance, and we were able to do that during this historic drawing with the cooperation of all participating lotteries.”
Of course, given the outcome, I’m sure we’ll be hearing zero complaints from the newly-minted billionaire. Nor from business owner Joe Chahayed, who received a maximum bonus of $1 million for being the individual who sold the headline-making Powerball jackpot ticket.
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“I’m very surprised. Very excited. Very happy,” said Joe Chahayed.
“I wish I knew the person but most people who buy tickets from me are from the neighbourhood. I hope one of them will be the winner.”
Chahayed has stated he will spend his million on his five children, as well as donate a portion to the community.
Here are a few notable names from the AFR Rich List said newly-minted billionaire is already richer than:
- Laurence Escalante ($3 billion) – Virtual Gaming Worlds
- Bruce Mathieson ($2.2 billion) – Endeavour Group, ALH
- Nick Molnar & Anthony Eisen ($1.5 billion) – Afterpay
- Justin Hemmes ($1.1 billion) – Merivale
- John Symond ($800 million) – Aussie Home Loans
