Powerball Player Just Misses $1.2 Billion Jackpot, but Still Wins Big in Florida

The air crackled with excitement on September 1, 2025. The Powerball jackpot reached an eye-popping $1.1 billion, tempting millions to dream about what life could look like with a lucky ticket. As the numbers were drawn, a Florida player’s near miss brought waves of suspense. Spoiler: they didn’t win the record jackpot, but still walked away with a life-changing prize and one incredible story.

The Near‑Miss Event: What Happened in Florida

Powerball fever hit a high as the jackpot soared to $1.1 billion for the draw on September 1. In Florida, where sales reached over 7,000 tickets per minute at peak, one ticket sold in Pensacola came within a hair’s breadth of the grand prize.

The ticket matched all five white balls but missed the all-important Powerball number. Instead of the jackpot, the player bagged a $1 million prize—a second-tier win that could still rewrite anyone’s life.

Onlookers at the Greers Perdido Bay Market buzzed with excitement as news spread. An employee joked, “That’s the kind of win that’ll keep folks lining up at our doors every drawing.” The winner, remaining anonymous but quoted by Florida Lottery officials, said, “I’m in shock—I never expected to get this close.”

Ticket Details and Numbers

For the September 1 drawing, the winning numbers were:

White Balls	Powerball
8, 23, 25, 40, 53	5

The Florida winner’s ticket matched 8, 23, 25, 40, 53, but chose a different Powerball number. So close it almost hurts.

How Close Was the Miss?

This second-tier win means the player’s numbers lined up perfectly with all five white balls drawn. If they’d picked the red Powerball as 5—just one digit off—they’d have joined the billionaires club. Matching five white balls out of six is about as close as it gets before hitting the ceiling.

Immediate Reactions from the Winner

While the Florida Lottery keeps winners’ names private for a few months, word spread fast. Friends shared their excitement on social media, posting, “So proud to know a millionaire!” and “That’s life-changing money!” The winner called the experience dizzying, grateful, and a little surreal.

The Big Win: Prize Breakdown

Even without the full $1.1 billion, landing $1 million is nothing to brush off. In Florida, Powerball payouts give winners options and come with a few practical steps.

Amount Won and Payout Options

The Florida winner claimed the standard $1 million prize for matching all five white balls. Unlike the jackpot, this prize comes only as a lump sum, not an annuity. Winners usually receive payout within weeks of verifying their ticket and identity.

Tax Implications in Florida

Florida doesn’t charge state income tax on lottery winnings, making it one of the best places to win big. Federal taxes do apply, though. With a 24% federal withholding, the winner likely takes home about $760,000 after taxes.

How the Winner Plans to Use the Money

The winner told reporters, “This windfall lets me help my family and give back.” While details are scarce, they mentioned plans for mortgage payments and a donation to a local children’s charity.

Impact on the Powerball Jackpot and Future Draws

Every near miss like this keeps the Powerball jackpot in the headlines, driving up interest and ticket sales for upcoming draws.

Effect on the $1.2 Billion Jackpot Size

Because no one hit all six numbers, the jackpot rolled over and surged to an eye-catching $1.3 billion for the next drawing.

Expected Changes in Ticket Sales

Whenever a local player scores big—especially so close to the jackpot—ticket sales skyrocket. Retailers across Florida and the US reported record lines as the next draw approached.

Lessons and Takeaways for Players

Every time someone nearly wins the Powerball jackpot, it’s a reminder: life changes are possible, even if the odds are steep.

Understanding Odds and Near Misses

The odds of hitting the jackpot sit at about 1 in 292 million. Matching all five white balls? Still daunting, but far more common. Near misses are a natural outcome of large-number lotteries.

Smart Strategies for Playing Powerball

If you play, set a firm budget. Consider joining a pool with friends or coworkers to increase your odds, but don’t buy into myths—every set of numbers has the same chance.

Conclusion

Missing the Powerball jackpot by a single ball is a rollercoaster ride—disappointment mixed with life-changing joy. The Florida player may not have snagged the $1.2 billion, but a $1 million payday echoes loudly. As the jackpot rolls to $1.3 billion, lessons in hope, odds, and smart play remain front and center. Keep an eye on the numbers and play responsibly—after all, next time it could be you making headlines.