Sarasota County man secures life-changing $25 million prize after playing the 500X the Cash scratch-off game

Tallahassee, Florida – In a life-changing moment of luck and excitement, a Sarasota County man is celebrating a massive win from one of Florida’s most high-stakes lottery games. The Florida Lottery announced that Kyle Lindquist, a 45-year-old resident of Venice, has claimed the top prize of $25 million from the wildly popular 500X THE CASH Scratch-Off game.

Lindquist claimed his prize at the Lottery’s Fort Myers District Office, where he chose to receive his winnings as a one-time, lump-sum payment of $16 million. While the decision trims the headline figure, it still represents a staggering payout that instantly changes his financial future.

The winning ticket was purchased at a Circle K convenience store located at 101 U.S. Highway 41 Bypass South in Venice. For its part in the lucky transaction, the retailer received a $50,000 bonus commission from the Florida Lottery—an extra incentive for stores across the state to continue selling tickets.

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The $50 500X THE CASH Scratch-Off game is known for its high stakes and impressive prizes. With a $25 million top prize, it holds the record for the largest ever offered on a Florida Lottery Scratch-Off game. In addition to the jaw-dropping grand prize, the game also includes more than $1.66 billion in total cash prizes and boasts odds of 1 in 4.23 to win something—making it one of the most exciting options for lottery hopefuls.

Scratch-Off games are more than just fun for players—they’re a major driver of revenue for the Florida Lottery. In fiscal year 2023–2024, Scratch-Off tickets made up approximately 74 percent of all ticket sales. Over the years, these games have created more than 2,280 millionaires and awarded over $65.5 billion in prizes.

More importantly, revenue from Scratch-Off sales helps fund education in Florida. Since their inception, these games have generated over $19.8 billion for the state’s Educational Enhancement Trust Fund, which supports public education initiatives throughout Florida.

This recent win adds another chapter to the growing legacy of Florida Lottery success stories. And for Lindquist, who likely bought his ticket on an ordinary day at a local gas station, the outcome was anything but ordinary.

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The Florida Lottery continues to promote responsible play, reminding participants that while the odds of winning big are enticing, playing should always be done for fun and within one’s means.

With $25 million in winnings and his name now added to the long list of Florida Lottery millionaires, Kyle Lindquist’s story stands as a thrilling reminder of just how unpredictable and exciting life can be.