'Can't Believe It': Lucky IL Dad Wins $1 Million On $50 Scratchoff Ticket

The man previously won $100 on a different scratchoff ticket, then used that to buy the $50 one, he told Lottery officials.

By Lauren Traut, Patch Staff

Nov 10, 2026 12:18 PM CST

A northern Illinois man won $1 million on a $50 scratchoff ticket, Illinois Lottery officials said. (Courtesy of Illinois Lottery)

FREEPORT, IL — A northern Illinois man is celebrating after a a quick stop at the store scored him a $1 million winning scratchoff ticket.

The winner, who opted to remain anonymous, claimed the $1 million top prize on a $50 Millionaire Club Instant Ticket.

The winning ticket was purchased at Cub Foods, located at 1512 S. West Ave. in Freeport. The man had stopped at the store following a local sporting event. For selling the winning ticket, the retailer will receive a $10,000 selling bonus, equal to one percent of the prize amount.

"My favorite team might have lost that game, but I came out a winner," the lucky player said with a chuckle. "I'm still processing it all — I can't believe it."

His $1 million win came on his second time playing the $50 Millionaire Club game. He first purchased a $20 instant ticket using money he earned from house-sitting for his daughter while they were on vacation. After that, he decided to try the $50 game for the first time.

"I won $100 on that first try," he recalled. "That initial win brought me back the next day to cash in my ticket. I decided to give it another shot, and that's what ultimately led to this $1 million prize."

Eager to share the exciting news, he turned to family and friends. His four children were quick to offer their support and encouragement.

"I have four kids, and when I offered them a portion of the prize, guess what they told me?" he shared. "They said, 'No Dad, you've already taken great care of us. It's time you did some things for yourself.'"

With his newfound winnings, the winner plans to purchase a new car and put money toward his retirement.

"We're a sports family," he said. "I'm excited to treat my kids to a private suite experience during game season."

To date in 2026, nearly 50 million winning Instant Tickets have been sold, with players statewide claiming over $1.3 billion in prizes.

The Illinois Lottery currently offers a range of Instant Tickets priced from $1 to $50, available at approximately 7,000 retail locations across Illinois.