The Third Biggest Ever Powerball Jackpot… If It's Won

Wednesday's Draw

The jackpot for Wednesday night ended up being $1.444 billion (that's 1,444,000,000!), substantially more than the original estimate of $1.3 billion. Fortunately or unfortunately, however, no players managed to match all of the winning numbers: 3-16-29-61-69 and 22 for the Powerball. The Power Play multiplier was 2x.

All the same, eleven players managed to match five main numbers to win million-dollar prizes, and a further four players matched five numbers while using the Power-Play add-on, landing them $2 million each!

Record Wins

The current estimate of $1.7 billion, should it be won, would be the third-biggest jackpot ever - not just for Powerball, but in the history of lotteries. Who are the other two winners then?

In 2023, a group of players in California claimed a $1.73 billion prize, which was redeemed by one Theodorus Struyck. However, not much else is known about this group, despite CA Lottery laws disclosing the winner's name.

In 2022, Edwin Castro, also playing in California, won the biggest ever prize in any game: a jackpot of $2.2 billion. He respectfully declined to comment on his win, aiming to keep a low profile. Can you blame him?

Of course, it's very possible, even likely, that the jackpot will roll higher than both of these previous records. We'll find out soon enough!

What Next? Get Involved!

The next draw will take place on Saturday at 10:59 PM, Eastern Time, and a jackpot estimated at $1.7 billion is in play, although remember, it could end up being higher depending on ticket sales. It will only be a couple of roll-over draws now until the jackpot surpasses the previous record, which would be super exciting!

In the meantime, make sure you get your tickets in time for the draw. Many states nowadays permit online ticket sales, which is a quicker, more convenient, and more secure way to play. After all, you can't misplace a digital ticket. Head on over to our Tickets Page to find out more and maybe give it a go.