Rory McIlroy reacts as LIV golf future dealt crushing new blow as five-year agreement comes to an end

The future of LIV golf appears even more uncertain after a five-year agreement came to an end.

In April, Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) confirmed that it would stop funding LIV once the 2026 season comes to an end.

The league was set up in 2022 as competition for the PGA Tour - the goal being to modernize the sport of golf.

From the off a whole host of huge names were lured to the rival project, with Bryson DeChambeau earning $60 million in his three-year tenure after jumping ship.

Jon Rahm was another star to make the switch.

But there is huge uncertainty regarding the direction of LIV going forward and a fresh development has only added to concerns.

It's been confirmed that the Asian Tour will join the DP World Tour and PGA Tour ecosystem.

It had partnered with LIV back in 2021 but the partnership is being nixed in favour of a new agreement.

READ MORE: 'The reality is...' - PGA Tour CEO speaks out on talks with LIV Golf stars over return

After discussions took place at the recent Open Championship at Royal Birkdale, it was decided that the Asian Tour had re-aligned with the PGA.

The multi-year partnership will last until at least 2029 and includes a new co-sanctioning arrangement between Asian Tour and DP World Tour for events in Asia.

In a statement on their website, the European Tour said the move "will help provide commercial and playing opportunities" - with a total of 108 tournaments co-sanctioned

“This agreement is another example of what can be accomplished when organisations come together with a shared vision for the future of professional golf," Christian Hardy, Senior Vice President of International at the PGA Tour said.

“Through our Strategic Alliance with the DP World Tour, we have worked to build a more connected global golf ecosystem, and we are excited to welcome the Asian Tour into that effort. Together, we are creating new opportunities for players, enhancing key National Opens around the world and continuing to evolve and strengthen pathways to identify and develop the next generation of elite talent.”

Rory McIlroy responds to 'positive news' for golf of sport

The two-time Masters winner remained loyal and was easily the biggest name to not jump to LIV, notably stating that, "If LIV Golf was the last place to play golf on Earth, I would retire".

He welcomed the news of the partnership, which be believes will be extremely beneficial for the sport on the whole.

Taking to X, McIlroy wrote: "Positive news, and great to see the respective tours working together for the good of international golf."

The PIF have reportedly invested $5 billion into LIV but the lack of funding looks set to have a seismic impact.

CEO Scott O'Neil is now searching for new investors but it appears as though even if the league continues, it will have to operate in a completely different manner.

Speaking last month, O'Neil said: "What I can guarantee is a heck of a return if you come invest in this business.

"We have incredible business momentum. What we don't have is a lot of time. So we're very urgently out there talking to those who are interested.

"We like the pool, but we have to get this done through the summer."