For the F-35A launch customer the dynamic 'dogfighting' performance of the aircraft was baselined to meet or exceed that of the F-16 at the upper part of the envelope and the F/A-18 at the slower/high-alpha range. They got the latter (and a fair bit more) but not the former. This is all in the Program of Record.
Even in the BVR fight, getting missiles out at extended range remains an obvious priority. So the slow acceleration and extensive use of burner required on the F-35A to achieve a suitable above-mach launch speed is disappointing too. Lighting burners at night is not a good idea as in clear conditions you suddenly become WVR - IRST systems have become ubiquitous and IR missiles can now reach out and touch you at a considerable distance when compared to the days of old.
Nobody want a less agile fighter and counter-tactics, RoE, engagement windows can push you to WVR when you least want it.
Tactical development of the F-35 reflects the aircraft strengths as much as possible as you fight with what you have and not with a LM promise from years ago.