The statement "hard work is the key to success" is a commonly held belief that suggests that putting in significant effort and dedication is the most important factor in achieving success in any field. While hard work can certainly increase the likelihood of success, it is not the only factor that determines success.
Other factors, such as talent, skill, opportunity, and luck, can also play a significant role in determining one's success. For example, someone may work extremely hard to become a successful athlete, but if they lack the necessary physical attributes or natural talent, they may never achieve their desired level of success.
Moreover, success can be defined in many different ways. Some people may define success in terms of financial wealth or professional status, while others may define success in terms of personal happiness or fulfillment.
In summary, while hard work is important, it is not the only factor in determining success, and success can be defined in many different ways.