Northern Ireland’s McIlroy became just the sixth man to complete the four-major Grand Slam when he won the Masters in a thrilling finish in April.
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The 36-year-old then played a key role in Europe’s Ryder Cup victory in September, contributing three and a half points to seal their first victory in the United States since 2012.
“I don’t know what I’m going to do in 2026 to get over it, but I’ll try,” McIlroy told BBC Sport NI.
“I have a bit of free time over Christmas and New Year and I think it’s time to put the highlights on, watch it and reflect.
“It’s been an incredible 12 months and I want to enjoy everything I’ve done, but at the same time, this isn’t it for me – I have so much more I want to achieve.”
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McIlroy’s Masters victory came 14 years after he looked set to win at Augusta National, having led by four shots after three rounds in 2011 before falling.
But this year he held his nerve to claim his first green jacket in a jump-off after a late attack from Ryder Cup teammate Justin Rose.
McIlroy joined an elite club with his Masters victory: only Gene Sarazen, Ben Hogan, Gary Player, Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods had previously completed the career major.
He also claimed a seventh Race to Dubai title in 2025, and fourth in a row, and is now one shy of Colin Montgomerie’s record of eight European Tour titles.
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Asked if his goal is to beat the Scot’s record in 2026, McIlroy said: “I’d love to try. I still feel like I’ve got a few more years left in me. Touch wood, I’ve been injury-free.”
“I’ve been on tour half my life (18 years) but I still have enthusiasm for the game.
“Majors, plus Ryder Cups, that’s all great, but like Tommy (Fleetwood) said, as long as you feel like you still have that drive to keep improving, that’s the most important thing.”
McIlroy was named Sports Personality of the Year 2025 at a ceremony in Salford on Thursday.
McIlroy’s close friend Tommy Fleetwood joined him to collect the Team of the Year award, which was awarded to Europe for their success in the Ryder Cup.