Imagine checking your phone and finding out you’re suddenly a multi-millionaire.
That’s exactly what happened to one very lucky South African who just claimed half of the R78.9 million Lotto jackpot.
And yes—he’s still trying to wrap his head around it.
ITHUBA, the official operator of South Africa’s National Lottery, confirmed that both winners of the massive jackpot from draw number 2551 (held on Wednesday, June 18, 2025) have now officially come forward.
Second Jackpot Winner Steps Into the Spotlight
While the first winner—a woman who spent just R30 on a Quick Pick ticket at a Johannesburg superstore—claimed her prize earlier this week, the second winner has now also come forward to collect his incredible R39.48 million share.
This latest winner, who has chosen to remain anonymous, purchased his winning ticket through the Standard Bank banking app.
His R200 Quick Pick wager turned out to be the ticket to a life of financial freedom.
The Winning Numbers and That Unexpected Call
The numbers that made both winners rich were: 10, 13, 27, 30, 38, 39, with the bonus ball 16.
For the second winner, it all started with an unexpected phone call—from his bank.
“I just found out, and it feels absolutely surreal,” he said.
As a panel beater by profession, he’s a regular Lotto player, but this was his first life-altering win.
“I’ve always had hope, but it always felt like a dream that was out of reach,” he admitted. “Now, here I am—actually a Lotto multi-millionaire!”
From Humble Work to Big Dreams
After getting the news, the first person he called was his wife.
“She was shocked and thrilled,” he said, laughing.
While he hasn’t drawn up a detailed plan for the money just yet, he knows it’ll go towards changing his family’s life.
“I want to invest a good portion of the money and also give back to a cause that matters to me,” he shared.
He also mentioned that the win will give him the freedom to pursue personal hobbies, like bike riding, with far fewer financial worries.
ITHUBA Applauds Both Winners
ITHUBA CEO Charmaine Mabuza expressed her joy that both winners had now stepped forward.
“This is an incredibly exciting moment,” she said.
“This winner is still adjusting to what it means to be a multi-millionaire, and we’re here to guide him through the next chapter.”
She also emphasized the importance of responsible winning: “It’s not just about winning—it’s about managing that win wisely.”
Help and Guidance for Life After the Jackpot
To support big winners like this one, ITHUBA provides access to certified financial advisors for anyone who wins R50,000 or more.
Their goal? To ensure winners make smart decisions that provide lasting security.
All winnings from the National Lottery are completely tax-free, and players have up to 365 days from the draw date to claim their prize.
So, if you’ve played recently—double-check those numbers!
Could You Be Next?
ITHUBA reminds everyone that players must be 18 years or older and to always play responsibly.
For those who think they might have a winning ticket, results are available at lottery retail outlets, on the official National Lottery website, and across social media.
So… what would you do if you woke up a millionaire tomorrow?