Everyone dreams of striking it rich with a lottery or bingo ticket. For a lucky few, those dreams have become reality, and their stories are the stuff of legends. From record-shattering Powerball jackpots to unexpected bingo wins, here are ten of the biggest and most fascinating winners the world has ever seen.
1. The $1.586 Billion Powerball Jackpot (USA, 2016)
In January 2016, the world watched in awe as the Powerball jackpot reached an astronomical $1.586 billion. Three tickets matched all the numbers, with winners from California, Florida, and Tennessee sharing the prize. This remains the largest lottery jackpot ever awarded globally. Each winner received roughly $528 million before taxes, and their lives were never the same again.
2. EuroMillions’ €230 Million Jackpot (UK, 2022)
The biggest EuroMillions win to date saw a British ticket-holder claim a staggering €230 million (approximately £195 million) in July 2022. The winner chose to remain anonymous, prompting widespread speculation and media interest. This win surpassed all previous UK records, making headlines on platforms like BBC News.
3. Mavis Wanczyk – $758.7 Million Powerball Winner (USA, 2017)
Mavis Wanczyk of Massachusetts became a household name when she claimed the largest single-ticket jackpot in US history. After winning $758.7 million, she immediately quit her hospital job and opted for a lump sum of $480 million. Her story captivated the world with its swift and bold decisions.
4. Manuel Franco – $768.4 Million Powerball Winner (USA, 2019)
At just 24 years old, Manuel Franco from Wisconsin walked away with a life-changing $768.4 million. He described the moment he realised he had won as surreal and overwhelming. His win brought him into the spotlight, but he has since kept a low profile to manage his new life privately.
5. Colin and Christine Weir – £161 Million EuroMillions Winners (UK, 2011)
The Weirs, from Largs in Scotland, scooped one of the UK’s biggest EuroMillions prizes. Known for their generosity, they donated millions to charitable causes and supported Scottish independence efforts. Colin sadly passed away in 2019, but their philanthropic legacy lives on.
6. Gloria MacKenzie – $590.5 Million Powerball Winner (USA, 2013)
Gloria MacKenzie, aged 84 at the time, became the oldest solo Powerball winner. She quietly accepted her $590.5 million prize in Florida and lived modestly despite her immense wealth. Her case later made headlines again due to a legal dispute involving mismanaged funds.
7. John Orchard – £5.9 Million Bingo Win (UK, 2012)
John Orchard turned a £30 stake on an online bingo site into a £5.9 million windfall. Living in Lincolnshire, the grandfather chose to buy a new home and a Jaguar with his winnings. His win helped boost the reputation of online bingo as a genuine chance at fortune. You can explore more quirky bingo wins in our Top 10 Strangest Bingo Wins.
8. Soraya Lowell – £1.2 Million Bingo Jackpot (UK, 2008)
Soraya Lowell from South Lanarkshire won a then-record £1.2 million playing bingo at her local club. She planned to split the money with a co-worker, showcasing her generous spirit. Despite later financial troubles, Soraya’s win remains one of the UK’s most memorable bingo moments.
9. Jane Park – £1 Million EuroMillions Raffle Winner (UK, 2013)
At just 17 years old, Jane Park became one of the youngest UK millionaires after winning a EuroMillions raffle. Her win sparked national debate about the appropriate age for lottery play. Jane has since been outspoken about the pressures that came with sudden wealth, even suggesting the lottery should offer counselling to young winners. Her story is highlighted in features like this Guardian article.
10. The Anonymous Spanish El Gordo Winner (Spain, 2020)
Spain’s famous Christmas lottery, El Gordo, is known for its massive payouts and shared winnings. In 2020, the top prize of €720 million was divided among thousands of ticket holders, with one anonymous individual claiming a significant portion. El Gordo remains one of the most anticipated lottery events each year, with deep cultural significance in Spain.
These incredible wins highlight the life-changing power of luck and numbers. Whether through a scratch card, bingo ball, or national lottery draw, the dream of becoming an overnight millionaire is alive and well. For more unbelievable stories of luck and fortune, be sure to check out our Top 10 Craziest Lottery Win Stories.