BALTIMORE — A longtime Maryland Lottery player from Anne Arundel County, choosing to remain anonymous, claimed a $40,020 Mega Millions prize at Lottery headquarters in Baltimore on June 11, 2025. The government employee, who has played for over two decades, called the win his largest ever, marking a milestone in his biweekly ticket-buying routine.
“I’ve been playing for more than two decades,” he said. “Mega Millions and Powerball are the games I enjoy playing the most.”
The win unfolded during a routine stop at his go-to retailer, Exxon at the Mills, located at 7671 Arundel Mills Boulevard in Hanover. On a Sunday in early June, he scanned several tickets purchased in May. One displayed the message seasoned players recognize: “Winner, take to Lottery.”
“As soon as I saw that message, I knew it meant something big,” he said. “But when I found out it was $40,020, the most I’ve ever won, I was in disbelief. I really felt lucky.”
The winner plans to use the prize to pay off bills and invest in home renovations, particularly upgrading his bathroom. His practical approach reflects the grounded mindset of a player whose hobby has become a steady ritual.
The Maryland Lottery remains a popular pastime, with Mega Millions drawing players through its large jackpots and significant secondary prizes like this one. The Anne Arundel County resident’s story highlights the persistence of regular players who see the lottery as both entertainment and opportunity. His $40,020 win, claimed in Baltimore, underscores the excitement that keeps Marylanders engaged.
Exxon at the Mills, located in the bustling Arundel Mills area of Anne Arundel County, is a familiar spot for the winner and many local players. The retailer, situated near shopping and entertainment hubs, played a key role in this victory, adding to its significance for the winner.
Opting for anonymity, the winner shared limited personal details during his visit to Lottery headquarters. His choice aligns with many winners who prefer privacy after a substantial prize. The claim process, handled efficiently by Maryland Lottery officials, ensured the prize was promptly awarded.
