21 June 2025
By Roger Kennedy
roger@TheCork.ie

Lotteries are a dream for most people. The idea of suddenly having a lot of money can be life-changing. But if you won a big jackpot, would you announce that? Surprisingly, most people say they would not announce their winnings. In actuality, the majority of Lotto winners opt to withhold their names. Let’s take a look at why so many winners want to keep their good fortune under wraps and what this means for them. 

The Pressure of Winning

A lottery prize is a lot of money, and it comes with a lot of pressure. When others discover your lottery win, their behaviour may shift. Friends, family or complete strangers may think you owe them a share of your income or ask you for loans. This can turn life into a burden rather than a joy. 

Most folks who win worry that people will be asking them for money constantly. They worry that others may be interested in them only because of their money. This is perhaps one reason most Lotto winners choose to remain anonymous. In this way, by not disclosing their win, they avoid unwanted attention and pressure.

Privacy and Safety Concerns

When someone wins a big prize, their name and photograph often go public. This could lead to unwanted publicity and loss of privacy. Some winners may deal with safety challenges. With that much cash on the line, many winners choose not to disclose their identity. The majority of Lotto winners have stayed out of the limelight to protect their personal lives and privacy.

Preventing Relationships from Changing

Winning the lottery has the potential to alter people’s perception of you. Sometimes, friendships and family relationships can be complicated. So, pressure to turn over or share your money is likely to arise, potentially leading to tension. 

Winners can keep their relationships normal by remaining anonymous. They can eliminate much of the jealousy, miscommunication and competition that money can create. The majority of Lotto winners would rather not put their name out there because they would like to keep their personal relationships intact. 

What Would You Do?

If you won the lottery, would you keep it a secret? The answer is not easy. It may seem momentous to share the news, and it is, but it comes with risks. Most Lotto winners had stayed anonymous for good reasons — to guard their privacy, spare themselves pressure, and keep their lives normal.

In the long run, keeping the win a secret can enable the winners to quietly and securely enjoy their money. It will allow them to live their lives without the added difficulties that fame and wealth can bring. 

Conclusion

Winning the lottery is a complete turnaround of life. But when most winners win, they don’t rush to announce their news. Most Lotto winners opt to remain anonymous, as it enables them to avoid pressure, safeguard their privacy, and maintain friendships. If you happen to be in possession of a winning ticket, you might want to consider whether you should tell anyone or keep it to yourself. Sometimes the best option is to count your blessings quietly.