Gambler turns $5 bet into life-changing $10.1 million after night in Las Vegas

A gambler is living the dream after they turned $5 into $10.1 million after venturing to the Vegas strip from California.

Las Vegas is a place that you either love or hate, with some longing to go to Sin City while others regard it as their idea of hell.

For those who have a keen interest in gambling, the bright lights of Vegas could be too hard to resist and the thought of leaving with an abundance of riches could be very tempting.

For some, this can end in heartbreak but for one lucky winner who arrived at the famed city with $5 and a dream, they are leaving $10 million richer.

The gaming giant IGT (International Game Technology) revealed the exciting news, identifying the fortunate guest who, while visiting Las Vegas from California, became an overnight millionaire.

The life-changing win unfolded on the Megabucks Gold Forge Slots at the Aria casino.

"One lucky player from California became the latest Megabucks™ millionaire with this life-changing win," IGT revealed on X (formerly know as Twitter).

The staggering $10.1 million win has set a new benchmark for jackpot victories, with many now presumably wanting to try their luck on the machines.

The unnamed winner walked away $10 million richer. Credit: AdShooter/Getty

Speaking of Vegas, it was revealed earlier this month that the incredible Las Vegas Sphere made a loss of $100 million in the first quarter and their CFO had decided to abruptly step down.

The venue - initially announced in 2018 and touted as an 18,600-seat immersive experience with a groundbreaking 16K wraparound LED screen - opened its doors on September 29, 2023, with a highly publicized 36-show residency by U2.

Although the Sphere generated considerable buzz, including concerns from hotel guests about the imposing exterior projections, recent reports from the New York Post reveal a stark reality for the venue's financial performance.

The company behind the multi-billion dollar venture disclosed revenues of $118 million, marking a substantial 71% decrease from the previous year.

The reported revenue included $4.1 million from U2's sold-out residency shows and an additional $2.6 million from suite licensing and advertising on the eye-catching exosphere.

However, the overall financial picture painted a different story, with the company allegedly facing an operating loss of $98.4 million for the fiscal quarter ending on September 30.

Adding to the challenges, Guatam Ranji, the chief financial officer of Sphere Entertainment Co, has reportedly stepped down from his role.

The Vegas Sphere has reportedly made a loss of $100 million. Credit: Greg Doherty/Getty

James Dolan, the executive chairman and CEO of Madison Square Garden Sports and Madison Square Garden Entertainment, expressed optimism about the Sphere before its opening, calling it a "significant milestone." However, the financial setbacks suggest a challenging start for the $2.3 billion venture.

While the financial challenges may raise concerns, industry observers note that the venue is still in its early stages and could potentially recover revenue over time, given its popularity and widespread attention since opening.

So who wants to go to Vegas to see the Sphere and potentially walk away with $10 million?

Featured image credit: Erik Snyder/Getty