28-year-old Canadian wins major lottery prize just before first baby arrives
An Ontario resident had several reasons to celebrate over the holidays, one of them being a huge lottery win.
Nepean resident Kyle Stimpson can make his dreams come true after winning a $500,000 Maxmillions prize in the Dec. 23, 2025, Lotto Max draw. His lottery ticket was one of the two that split a $1-million Maxmillions prize.
The 28-year-old has been an occasional player with the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) since he was old enough to buy a ticket. This is his first major win.
OLG
Stimpson picked up a Lotto Max ticket at the gas station when he noticed the jackpot was $80 million.
“I was at a family party, and everyone was talking about the jackpot, so it was fresh on my mind. I bought the ticket with about an hour to spare before sales closed for the draw,” he shared while at the OLG Prize Centre in Toronto to collect his windfall.
The high-end automotive industry worker said he left the lottery ticket on the fridge for a few days as he celebrated the holidays.
“I was doing some chores around the house when I noticed the ticket and thought to check it on the OLG app,” recalled Stimpson. “I saw the ‘Big Winner’ message on the screen and thought it was a glitch! Then I scanned it again, took a screenshot, and sent it to my girlfriend. I couldn’t believe it!ā
Turns out the big win came at the perfect time for him and his partner.
“Over the holidays, we got engaged and announced that we’re expecting our first child ā and then I won this prize,” Stimpson said, beaming.
“I never imagined winning something like this. I’m so happy and thankful. This is going to be a magical year for my growing family and me,” he concluded.
The lucky lottery winner bought his ticket at Circle K on Greenbank Road in Nepean.
The next Lotto Max draw is on Friday, Feb. 27. If you haven’t yet, make sure to check your numbers from Tuesday’s draw ā three Canadians managed to score the second prize.
All forms of gambling, including the lottery, involve risk and outcomes are based on chance. Individuals are strongly advised to gamble responsibly. If you are experiencing any signs of gambling-related issues,Ā check out these resources.