Saudi-backed LIV Golf launched three years ago with a splash, offering a record $4.75 million prize at its first London event. Backed by the Public Investment Fund, the upstart promised to disrupt the golf world with big money and a new format. Initial expectations pointed to a rapid takeover of the sport.

However, the league has failed to dent the PGA Tour's dominance. Despite signing stars like Brooks Koepka and Phil Mickelson, LIV struggled with poor TV ratings and limited fan engagement. The massive financial investment hasn't translated into cultural relevance, leaving the tour's long-term viability in serious question.

The conflict escalated into a costly stalemate, forcing players to choose sides and dividing the sport. LIV's existence pushed the PGA Tour to seek a controversial merger framework to end the fighting. This ongoing saga continues to reshape professional golf's structure and future.

Ultimately, the $5 billion gamble appears to have stalled. With the merger framework uncertain, both tours face an unclear path forward. The sport remains fractured, and the initial promise of a unified new era has evaporated, leaving players and fans waiting for a resolution.