New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg has decided not to run for the U.S. presidency, he said in the New York Times, ending long-running speculation that he could launch a challenge as an independent candidate.

"I listened carefully to those who encouraged me to run, but I am not and will not be a candidate for president," Bloomberg said in an opinion article in Thursday's newspaper.

It was Bloomberg's most categorical statement that he will not compete in the November election against the Democratic and Republican nominees.

He told reporters earlier on Wednesday, "I'm not a candidate for president of the United States" -- a phrase he has used many times and that appeared to leave the door open for a possible late presidential run.

Bloomberg did not say why he had decided not to run and was critical of the Republican and Democratic contenders, saying they appeared afraid to "level with" voters on many important issues such as trade, the environment and immigration.

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