It was an ordinary evening for Justin Simporios—a simple trip to Walmart to grab buns and cheese for a family burger night. But what started as a mundane grocery run turned into a moment that would redefine the rest of his life. On May 9, 2025, Simporios unknowingly picked up a $12 Lotto Max quick pick ticket—one that would soon make him Canada’s biggest single lottery winner ever, taking home a jaw-dropping $80 million.
During a press conference held Thursday, an emotional Simporios wiped away tears as he stepped forward to claim his prize. “I just can’t help my tears,” he said. “It’s an amazing feeling. It’s real, it’s sinking in now, but it’s life-changing, right? It’s just too much right now, but thank you so much, thank you. It’s not sad tears, it is happy tears.”
For residents of British Columbia, this moment also marks a historical milestone: this is the largest jackpot ever won in B.C. and the largest single-ticket Lotto Max prize claimed by one individual in Canadian history.
Simporios explained how the win unfolded. He had gone to Central City Walmart, where he noticed a lottery ticket kiosk. On a whim, he decided to buy a $12 quick pick Lotto Max ticket. The next day, he casually checked the numbers—only to discover he held the sole winning ticket.
In an instant, an ordinary man from B.C. became a multi-millionaire, catapulted into a level of wealth most only dream of. What makes the story even more heartwarming is Simporios’ humble demeanor and his commitment to sharing the moment with his loved ones. The night of the draw, he had planned to have a simple dinner with his wife and daughter, showcasing the contrast between everyday normalcy and life-changing fortune.
The Lotto Max win has sparked excitement across Canada, with many praising Simporios’ genuine emotions and down-to-earth attitude. Unlike many viral lottery winners, who often become elusive or boastful, Simporios remained open, overwhelmed, and grateful—qualities that have endeared him to Canadians coast-to-coast.
Though he hasn’t yet shared detailed plans for his newfound fortune, Simporios’ immediate reaction suggests he understands the gravity of this change. “It’s sinking in now,” he said. “It’s life-changing.”
Whether he chooses to travel the world, invest, or simply enjoy quality time with family, Simporios’ story serves as a reminder that sometimes, life really can change in a single moment—even if you’re just stopping in for burger toppings.
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