Illinois Man Wins $1M Recycling Powerball Numbers
Illinois Man Wins $1 Million Powerball Prize Using Numbers From Old Ticket
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Updated September 25, 2025
Lucky Numbers Revisited
An Illinois man, identified as “Rex,” won a $1 million prize in the September 3 powerball drawing by recycling numbers from a previously unwinning ticket, according to the Illinois Lottery.
Rex explained he typically plays Lotto but decided to try his luck with Powerball after finding the old ticket. He was motivated by the large jackpot-over $1 billion-and a desire to potentially win big.
Winning Combination
The winning ticket, purchased at Joe’s tobacco and Vape & Phone Repair Shop on West Galena Boulevard in Aurora, Illinois, matched all five Powerball numbers: 3, 16, 29, 61, and 69. Powerball is a multi-state lottery game.
Rex described the moment he realized he’d won, stating it took a full day for the news to sink in. He triple-checked his ticket and even scanned it at the store where he bought it, experiencing a meaningful rise in blood pressure and difficulty sleeping.
Plans for the Prize
Rex intends to use his $1 million winnings to purchase a new car and buy gifts for his family and friends. The Illinois Lottery announced the win on September 25, 2025.
