Yes, you can get hacked by just clicking a link.
Consider what happens when you install an extension in your browser? That's a link. Also, who said that your browser cache and history is completely secure? Most of us have our bank account details and other sensitive information stored there. You click a link and foreign code is downloaded and run on your computer -- horribly dangerous behaviour if you ask me. Any weakness in your defenses, or flaw in your security models, and you could be open to exfiltration of sensitive info and have your entire life ruined.
Are there any disclosed vulnerabilities in browsers that would allow such an attack? Maybe, maybe not, but the impact is high enough that even a small risk causes this to be a major concern.
Ok, I'm overplaying things for dramatic effect. Most people won't get hacked this way and the web is for the most part safe. It is likely that such hacks will take the resources of state-sponsored hackers. But, if you're in a sensitive job, maybe state-sponsored hackers are interested in your data and you should be very careful about which websites you visit. Even if you're not, then you should be aware of which part of the web you're browsing -- news outlets, programming sites, entertainment, probably all safe, but if you're looking for hacking tutorials and dark-web resources, then caveat emptor.
