PvP worked in Destiny at the start very well as it was never really badged the uber competitive MP PvP game, more so an addition to the game that was phenomenally well backed by loads of players. Problem is over time gamers expectations change, especially when it lands as well as it did, people expect more and more and had to be better stuff. I just don't think Bungie ever said PvP was going to be the thing to do in Destiny, player power made them look at it in a different light, wanting more stuff and then a way to get competitive in it.
If PvP wasn't taken as seriously, just like in D1, then I think its not in that bad of a state. Its ludicrous for a reason and its why I think we all loved it so much. At least now after 10 years you have a mode where its now pretty much about the guns and not supers, which is what everyone wanted...but no one is probably giving it a go because its a little too late for some.