A Powerball ticket purchased in Illinois has clinched the game's largest jackpot of the year, an estimated $1.04 billion, following Wednesday night's drawing. The winning ticket successfully matched all six numbers required to claim the substantial prize.

The winning numbers drawn were 4, 26, 66, 67, 69, and the red Powerball number 9. This marks the 44th consecutive drawing without a jackpot winner since the last grand prize was claimed on May 2.

The lucky ticket holder has two options for claiming the prize: receiving the full annuitized amount of $1.04 billion paid out over 29 years, or opting for a one-time lump sum cash payment of $450.5 million. Both prize options are subject to applicable taxes.

This significant win places the current jackpot as the eighth-largest Powerball jackpot in the game's history. Lottery officials confirmed the ticket was sold in Illinois, though the specific location within the state remains undisclosed.

Last year saw two Powerball jackpots surpass the $1 billion mark. Notably, a $1.8 billion jackpot, the largest U.S. lottery prize ever recorded, was won on Christmas Eve. In September 2025, a $1.787 billion Powerball jackpot was split between two tickets sold in Missouri and Texas, making it the third-largest prize in U.S. lottery history.

The Powerball lottery is played in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Drawings are held on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays.

While the identity of the winner remains private, the immense sum offers a life-altering financial opportunity. Lottery winners often face complex decisions regarding financial management and public disclosure, with many opting for financial advisors to navigate the process.

The odds of winning the Powerball jackpot are approximately one in 292.2 million. The lottery organization encourages winners to sign the back of their ticket and consult with legal and financial professionals before claiming their prize.