An Oakland County man “shed tears of joy” when he won $1 million playing the Michigan Lottery’s Million Dollar Madness instant game.

The lucky 51-year-old player, who chose to remain anonymous, bought his winning ticket at East Holly Oil, located at 8435 East Holly Road in Holly. Holly is about 18 miles south of Flint.

“I normally only buy $1 or $5 tickets, but I splurged and bought a $10 ticket,” said the player. “I scratched it when I got home and shed tears of joy when I saw I won $1 million! My wife scanned it with her Michigan Lottery app three times to make sure it was real. Whenever I buy a ticket, I’m always hoping to win big, and I still can’t believe it really happened.”

“Michigan Lottery games give players a chance to win prizes that will have a profound impact on their lives,” said Lottery Commissioner Suzanna Shkreli. “Whether players choose to pay some of their good fortune forward or enjoy an early retirement, hearing from winners how winning the Lottery has eased their financial stress is rewarding.”

The player recently visited Lottery headquarters to claim the big prize. He chose to receive his prize as a one-time lump sum payment of about $693,000 rather than annuity payments for the full amount. With his winnings, he plans to pay bills and pay off his house and cars.

“Winning is an unbelievable and emotional experience,” said the player. “It means I don’t have to work so hard now and is a major relief.”

Players have won more than $11 million playing Million Dollar Madness which launched in August. Each $10 ticket offers players a chance to win prizes ranging from $10 up to $1 million. More than $42 million in prizes remain, including two $1 million top prizes, 39 $10,000 prizes, and 167 $2,000 prizes.

In 2023, Lottery players won nearly $1.8 billion playing instant games.

Lottery instant games may be purchased at retailers across the state.